The Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 is 99.2% effective in preventing serious complications of the coronavirus and 98.9% effective in preventing death, according to new data released by Israel’s Health Ministry on Motzei Shabbos.

The effectiveness of the vaccine was measured seven days after the second dose – when immunity is officially reached according to Pfizer clincial trials – and another seven days later. Morbidity and mortality rates among those vaccinated were then compared to rates of those not yet vaccinated.

The study also showed that the vaccine decreases the chance of hospitalization by 98.9% and reduces morbidity by 95.8%.

“Thanks to Israel’s strong health care system that has enabled us to reach an unparalleled vaccination rate in a short period of time, as well as to our ability to carry out comprehensive epidemiological tracking, we are the first country in the world to demonstrate the effect of the vaccine in the real clinical world,” said Health Ministry Director-General Chezy Levy.

“Our goal is to continue to vaccinate everyone over age 16, and when the time comes, also those under the age of 16, to reach the most extensive coverage possible of the population that will allow us to return to the normal life we all long for.”

Over 4.2 million Israelis have received at least one dose of the vaccine and 2.9 million Israelis have received both dosages. About 3 million Israelis are currently ineligible to be vaccinated, including children younger than 16.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)