Johnson & Johnson booster shots are now available (as of November 8) for all health workers who participated in the Sisonke 1 trial. This booster shot will be provided as part of a new trial to assess the effectiveness of a second J&J vaccine. According to the national health department, there is now strong evidence that efficacy of all Covid-19 vaccines decreases over time, in relation to their ability to prevent transmission of the virus.

A number of trials are now underway to assess the effectiveness of both heterologous boosters (i.e. a booster of a different type to the first vaccine given) and homologous boosters (i.e. the same type of vaccine given as a booster). At this time, and as this is a trial, health workers will only be offered the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

How the Sisonke booster application works

Eligible health workers will receive an invitation by SMS, on the number they used to enrol for the first part of the study.

As before, enrolment will be through the Electronic Vaccination Data System (EVDS)  and will include an informed consent form which will need to be completed online.

1. You will receive an SMS invitation to participate in Sisonke 2.
2. This will take you to a link for informed consent. Read it carefully and complete the form, should you wish to take part.
3. You will receive a new vaccination voucher number starting with the letters BD- (booster dose).
4. Ask your manager or watch the press and social media for details of your closest vaccination site. Sites will be available in all sub-districts. More here.