Israel to offer 4th vaccination to most vulnerable

Israel has approved a fourth vaccine dose for people most vulnerable to COVID-19, becoming one of the first countries to do so as it braces for a wave of infections fueled by the omicron variant.

The Director General of the Health Ministry announced the decision at a news conference late on Thursday. He said the decision was based on early research, and that officials will consider expanding the administration of a fourth dose to more of the public as they assess the situation.

Israel was among the first countries to roll out Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine a year ago and began freely offering boosters last summer. Earlier Thursday, Israel received its first shipment of pills that scientists say treat the worst effects of COVID-19.