South Korea plans to begin giving out Covid-19 booster shots from October, joining several countries that have approved such doses amid resurgent infections and concern that vaccine protection wanes over time, reports Reuters.

The plan will kick in once an October target for full vaccination of 70 per cent of the population is achieved, as authorities aim to boost the rate above 80pc with coverage for pregnant women and minors aged between 12 and 17 in the fourth quarter.

Initial booster doses will go to those with weakened immune systems or deemed to be at high risk. Others will receive them six months after full vaccination, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said.