A THIRD dose of the Pfizer vaccine provides near total immunity to Covid-19, a crucial study has revealed.
Researchers conducted the first full trial of the BioNTech/Pfizer booster, as virus cases rise across the UK.
In a group of 5,000 people who had two jabs only, 109 showed Covid symptoms.
But in another group of 5,000, who had been given a third shot almost a year after the second, the number was just five.
Scientists said the additional shot restored protection to “excellent” levels achieved shortly after the second dose.
They added a booster shot is 95.6 per cent effective against Covid-19, compared with two jabs and a placebo.
The results are a massive boost for Government efforts to encourage millions of eligible Brits to get a booster.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Excellent results from Pfizer showing their booster vaccine is safe and 95.6 per cent effective against Covid-19.
“It’s further evidence that boosters are the best way to protect those most at risk this winter. Please get your jabs when you get the call.”
Boris Johnson tweeted: “Great results from Pfizer showing 95.6 per cent efficacy against Covid-19 after your booster jab compared to just two doses.
“Please get yours when you get the call.”
Yesterday 223,816 booster doses were reported as the programme speeds up.
It comes after reports the wait time for boosters could be slashed under plans considered by ministers.
It could see almost nine million more Brits eligible for the third jab early, as virus cases continue to rise across the country.
The elderly may soon be able to get their jab five months after their last dose.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation is also said to be keen on the plans put forward by scientific advisers and ministers, the Telegraph reports.
