What is the acceptable timeframe between the first and second doses of the Comirnaty vaccine?
To complete the primary course with Comirnaty requires two doses given preferably 8 weeks apart (minimum 21 days apart) for those aged 5 years and over.
Vaccinators are advised not to give the second dose earlier than this, and while longer spacing is acceptable, the recommended spacing is for the second dose to be given at 8 weeks after the first dose.
People at highest risk of exposure to others with COVID-19 or at highest risk from severe COVID-19 are advised to have their second dose at least 21 days after the first to provide more immediate protection. Everyone else can allow 8 weeks between doses to provide a strong immune response and good protection after the second dose.
A closer spacing (at least 21 days) may also be advised for people who are due to commence planned immunosuppressive treatments for longer than 28 days, to provide a good immune response before treatment starts. Do not delay treatment or vaccination. Those who are already receiving such treatments are advised to allow 8 weeks between doses to give the best immune response.
Certain children at increased risk from COVID-19 aged 6 months to 4 years can received three primary doses with dose 1 and 2 given at least 21 days apart and dose 3 given 8 weeks later.
Additional doses are available once the primary course is completed to be given 6 months after the previous dose for those aged 16 years and over.