Israel Announces Fourth Shot for COVID-19

By Daniel Shapiro’23
Israel has announced they will be rolling out a fourth dose of the vaccine, available immediately to those ages 60 and older, in response to the surge of COVID-19 cases due to the Omicron variant.

Junior Isabelle Zellan remarked, “It’s exciting to see continued improvement in the global response to Covid-19, especially in protecting elderly and more vulnerable people.”
The news was received well by Prime Minister Naftali Bennet who stated, “Wonderful news, do not waste time— go, get vaccinated.” 
Junior Sam Zaslow-Braverman said, “I don’t know much about the science of a fourth dose, but if it’s proven to be safe and will help to prevent the spread of coronavirus, I absolutely agree. Everyone needs to get vaccinated.” 
In a preliminary study on the booster shot held at the Sheba Medical Center, there were some signs of success. The study found that patients who had received the fourth dose had five times more antibodies in their blood than they did with only three doses. 
    Sophomore Rachel Max said, “Hopefully with people receiving their 4th dose Israel will remain safe for the 9th, 10th, and 12th graders to have their Israel trips.” 
While data suggests that one booster shot curtailed the fourth wave of the virus that spread through Israel in August and September, the current three doses do not seem to be enough, as there is now a fifth wave of the virus challenging the first booster’s effectiveness.
    The Omicron variant is spreading fairly quickly through Israel. As of January 8th, the Israeli government reported 31,000 new infections including within the government itself, with three members of the Knesset being diagnosed as positive.