Individuals who would like to receive the second dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine as early as six weeks after the first dose can do so, Fiji’s Ministry of Health says.
The advise to shorten the interval from eight weeks to six was part of roll-out plans intended for the Bua subdivision to beef up their vaccination numbers.
In a statement today, the ministry has extended the advise to anyone across the country wishing to take their second dose six weeks after the first.
“Any person aged 18 years and above who has received the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine can receive the second dose after an interval period of 6 weeks to 8 weeks,” Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, Dr James Fong said.
“Despite the easing of restrictions after more than 80 per cent of Fiji’s eligible target population have been fully vaccinated, COVID-19 is still present in the country. There are still cases of COVID-19 in the communities. Therefore, COVID-19 vaccines remain the best defence against the deadly virus. It is important to get both doses of the COVID-19 vaccines to gain maximum protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death from the virus.”
