The Health Directorate has announced that Canberrans can now have their second dose of AstraZeneca injected between four and eight weeks after their first dose to protect them from the COVID-19 Delta variant better.
Chief Minister, Andrew Barr said the change was based on advice from the ACT Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerryn Coleman in line with guidance from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
“The best vaccine is the one that you can get today,” Mr Barr said.
“We want to see more Canberrans fully vaccinated faster to give them protection during this outbreak.”
Dr Coleman said the recommended interval between AstraZeneca doses had been changed due to the presence of COVID-19 in the community, particularly the Delta strain.
“Given the increased transmissibility of the Delta variant, it is now recommended that people have their second dose within the four to eight week range,” Dr Coleman said.
“Bringing forward your second dose may have a small effect on long-term protection of AstraZeneca vaccine but will make sure you are protected earlier,” she said.
“We know the vaccines are very effective at preventing illness and death.”
Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith said anyone with an existing AstraZeneca booking at the Calvary Mass Vaccination Clinic could bring their second dose forward.
Ms Stephen-Smith said anyone with a second-dose appointment already booked in would receive a message letting them know they were able to have their second dose sooner.
She said appointments could be rescheduled online using the MyDHR portal or by phoning the COVID-19 vaccination booking line on (02) 5124 7700 between 7am and 7pm.
“AstraZeneca appointments are widely available for people aged 18 and over from GPs and pharmacies across the ACT,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
Further information about COVID-19 vaccinations and bookings can be accessed at this PS News link.
