There are many reasons why one might choose AstraZeneca over an mRNA vaccine for their second dose. There is no clinical efficacy data for mixing and matching vaccines, such as clinical trials or real-world studies. For this reason, some may prefer a “proven” approach of receiving two doses of AstraZeneca. Some people who did not experience any adverse effects with their first dose of AstraZeneca may opt for a second dose of the same to try to avoid side-effects.
The COM-CoV study from the United Kingdom will report data on immunogenicity (antibody response) later this month. It may or may not be supportive of a mixing and matching approach. Some may prefer to wait for this data before deciding. Others may just be happy to take whatever vaccine is available and offered to them first.
Regardless of one’s decision, the critical point is for everyone to get a second dose as soon as they are eligible, whether it be AstraZeneca or an mRNA vaccine. The available evidence gives confidence that both options are safe and efficacious, so there’s no “wrong” choice here. Being fully vaccinated provides optimal protection against current and emerging strains, including the delta variant.
We are very fortunate in Canada to have the privilege to choose between two excellent options for our second doses. We have a responsibility to ensure that any unused vaccine supply is not wasted, and we must do much more to support global vaccine equity to help put an end the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide.
Please, go and get fully vaccinated both for yourself and for your community!
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.