If You’re Receiving a Two-Dose Vaccine, Do the Shots Need to ‘Match’?

Vaccine discussions are all the rage right now. Everyone is either getting vaccinated, scheduling their shot, or sharing stories about their friends and family who have been vaccinated. Families are reuniting after more than a year apart, with recent CDC data showing that 19% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19, while 33% have received at least one dose. After a year filled with anxiety and loss, vaccines are providing a sense of relief. However, many are left wondering which vaccine is the most effective or has the fewest side effects. A new topic of conversation is emerging: Can you mix vaccines? For instance, is it safe to receive a Pfizer shot followed by a Moderna shot?

In January, the UK made a surprising recommendation that caught healthcare professionals off guard. They suggested that if someone has received one vaccine but cannot access the same one for their second dose, mixing vaccines is acceptable. However, they advise sticking with the original manufacturer whenever possible. This approach aims to vaccinate the population as swiftly as possible. The New York Times reported that the UK’s guidance states, “every effort should be made” to complete the regimen with the initial vaccine, but if it’s unavailable, it’s reasonable to use whatever is accessible for the second dose.

At that time, there was no data to support this suggestion. Clinical trials at the University of Oxford began in February, where participants received either a Pfizer-BioNTech shot followed by an AstraZeneca shot or vice versa. Blood samples will soon be analyzed to assess whether mixing vaccines is effective. Until then, it remains uncertain.

The UK is also developing additional vaccines, some in clinical trials and others in animal testing. As new vaccines receive approval, researchers are looking into various combinations for dosing. Some experts believe that using two different vaccines may yield better results than using one alone. “We’re on the verge of some intriguing data,” noted Emily Carter, a researcher at the University of Melbourne.

The concept of a heterologous prime-boost, or mixing vaccines, has been utilized for years in trials involving influenza, Ebola, and HIV, although financial and logistical constraints have limited clinical trials. With COVID-19, manufacturers are producing parallel products, allowing for simultaneous testing. With ongoing clinical trials, we anticipate gaining clearer insights into the safety and efficacy of these combinations soon.

In the U.S., the CDC has stated that currently authorized COVID-19 vaccines “are not interchangeable,” and the safety and efficacy of a mixed vaccine series have yet to be evaluated. Therefore, it’s recommended to complete both doses with the same vaccine.

So what does this all mean? Is it safe to mix vaccines?

Theoretically, yes. However, the reality is that we still don’t have definitive answers. Just as vaccine development took time, so too will the research into the implications of mixing doses.

In the meantime, the CDC suggests a few steps to ensure you receive your second shot on time and with the same vaccine:

Keep your vaccination card, which contains vital information like your name, the date, and the vaccine dosage received.
Register for v-safe, a smartphone tool for tracking your vaccine experience and receiving reminders for your second dose.
After signing up for v-safe, consider registering for VaxText, a free reminder service for your upcoming dose.
Ensure your immunization record is documented in the Immunization Information System.
Schedule your second dose appointment before leaving the vaccination site to guarantee continuity.

As we await more information, President Biden has announced that all adults will be eligible for vaccination by April 19th. If you’re eligible, consider getting vaccinated for your peace of mind, but be sure to follow the guidance provided by health organizations. The quicker we vaccinate, the sooner we can approach a new normal.

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In summary, while the idea of mixing COVID-19 vaccines is intriguing and has been suggested in some regions, the safety and efficacy of such combinations remain under investigation. It is advisable to follow the recommendations of health authorities and ensure that both doses are received with the same vaccine until more conclusive data is available.