In the period from 25 July to 18 September 2022, people who had the first booster vaccination had a 47% lower risk of hospital admission than people who only received the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations, which is a relative risk difference (RRD) of -47%. This means that the risk of hospital admission after a booster vaccination was about two times lower during this period, compared to people who only received the basic series of vaccinations. The risk of hospital admission for people aged 60 years and older who had the repeat vaccination against COVID-19 was 22% lower than for people who received the booster jab but not the repeat vaccination (RRD -22%).
The incidence of hospital and ICU admissions has decreased since July 2022 and was low in all age groups among both vaccinated and unvaccinated people during the period covered by this update. The incidence of hospital admission is increasing somewhat by now. Hospital admissions were highest among unvaccinated people aged 80-89 years. ICU admissions were highest among people aged 70-79 years who only received the basic series of vaccinations, or were only partially vaccinated.
People who do not have the same vaccination status may also have differences in vulnerability (underlying health conditions) or the number of SARS-CoV-2 infections they have had. Therefore, a comparison of hospital and ICU admission rates between people with different vaccination statuses cannot be exclusively used to indicate vaccine effectiveness.
Everyone who has been invited to get a COVID-19 vaccination in the basic series, but has not yet done so, can still be vaccinated. Starting 19 September 2022, it is possible to get a repeat vaccination against COVID-19. This autumn vaccination is available to everyone aged 12 years and older who has at least completed the basic series of COVID-19 vaccinations. The vaccination is available from 3 months after the most recent COVID-19 vaccination or SARS-CoV-2 infection. The first invitations were sent to older people and people in medical risk groups, due to their higher risk of severe illness. Care workers who have contact with patients will also be invited.