Amid Delays, Many Arizonans Wonder When They'll Be Able To Get COVID-19 Vaccine
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Amid a rough rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine in short supply, many wonder when they’ll be able to get their shot — and whether their second dose will be delayed.
Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ has said the follow-up Pfizer or Moderna shot would be effective “on Day 24, Day 25, or Day 235.” Although some experts share her view, it runs counter to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Food and Drug Administration guidelines.
Banner chief clinical officer Dr. Marjorie Bessel said, "That guidance is that you should get your dose within 21 or 28 days, depending on which manufacturer you get your dose from, plus or minus four days, which is how the studies were done.”
Bessel says Banner’s points of dispensing (PODs) follow FDA and CDC guidance.
“CDC has offered guidance that the second dose could be delayed up to six weeks. At our PODs at Banner, we do make you a second appointment to follow those best practices," Bessel said.
FDA recommendations call for a second Pfizer dose three weeks after the first, and a second Moderna shot after one month.
The CDC has set acceptable delays at six weeks.
→ Q&AZ: What You Need To Know About Getting The Coronavirus Vaccine In Arizona
