Period of administration of 2nd dose of AstraZeneca vaccine reduced to eight weeks

After reviewing and evaluating the data arising from international studies on real vaccinations, as well as the recommendation in the Instructions for Use Leaflet of the AstraZeneca Vaccine, it was decided to reduce the period between the 1st and the 2nd dose of this vaccine from 12 to eight (8) weeks. The decision is implemented as of today, and arrangements have already been made at the Vaccination Centres, so that the appointments for the 2nd dose of the vaccine for those who will be vaccinated from today onwards with AstraZeneca, can be scheduled on the 8th week.

Regarding those who have been vaccinated with AstraZeneca before April 25, the following will apply:

• 1.
• Cases of individuals whose 1st dose of the vaccine dates back from 0 to 9 weeks, will be contacted by the Ministry of Health to reschedule their vaccination on the 8th week.
• 2.
• Cases of individuals whose 1st dose of the vaccine dates back from 10 to 12 weeks, will receive the 2nd dose of the vaccine as scheduled, on the 12th week.
• The National Vaccination Plan aims to proceed rapidly with the vaccination of the majority of the population with the available licensed vaccines, to achieve a significant level of immunity, and to protect citizens from serious illness and hospitalization.
• According to the data so far, in Cyprus, 84% of individuals aged 80 and over have been vaccinated at least with the 1st dose while in the age group of 70-79, 80% of individuals have been vaccinated.
• The data is reflected in the hospitalizations since the hospitalization number of individuals in this age group has decreased significantly.
• During the current period, individuals aged 45 and over are being vaccinated, and at the same time, during this week, people aged 39-44 are given priority for the arrangement of vaccination appointments.