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- Title
What is the evidence for extending the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccine dosing schedule?
- Authors
Tauh, Tonia; Mozel, Michelle; Meyler, Paula; Lee, Susan M.
- Abstract
Vaccine rollout for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) in British Columbia is underway with two approved mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna). Traditionally, an inactivated or attenuated pathogen may have been used as a vaccine, whereas mRNA and DNA vaccines provide genetic material that instruct the body's cells to produce a viral spike protein antigen. Presently, both mRNA vaccines are approved for use as a two-dose schedule given either 21 days or 28 days apart. However, there is a relative scarcity of vaccine compared to the population of British Columbia. BC's public health officials have proposed a delay between the primary vaccination and booster to 35 days from the recommended 21 and 28 days. Based on unpublished data available to the National Advisory Committee on Immunization through Health Canada for both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, there was no difference in vaccine efficacy between the people who got their second dose at day 19 and the people who got it at day 42. Various jurisdictions around the world are permitting a prolonged second dosing interval. Despite the paucity of clinical trial data, it is likely that increasing the interval between the first and second doses of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna is safe, both in the intervening period between doses and for long-term efficacy. Extending the vaccine schedule is likely warranted in order to allow the widest population to receive the first dose.
- Subjects
BRITISH Columbia; COVID-19; CANADA. Health Canada; SARS-CoV-2; DNA vaccines; COVID-19 vaccines; VACCINES
- Publication
British Columbia Medical Journal, 2021, Vol 63, Issue 2, p67
- ISSN
0007-0556
- Publication type
Article