New data indicate that some people ages 12 through 64 years—and especially males ages 12 through 39 years—would benefit from getting their second mRNA COVID-19 vaccine dose eight (8) weeks after receiving their first dose. Extending the time interval between primary mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses from the FDA-approved or authorized three (3) weeks (Pfizer-BioNTech) or four (4) weeks (Moderna) to eight (8) weeks may help increase how long protection lasts against COVID-19.
It’s important to note this update does not apply to everyone. The 3-week or 4-week interval is still recommended for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, adults ages 65 years and older, and others who may need early protection due to concern about an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 or high levels of community transmission. People ages 12 years and older who are moderate or severely immunocompromised should receive three doses in their mRNA primary vaccine series and should receive a booster dose with an mRNA vaccine at least three (3) months after completing their third primary series dose.
Find the new data on dosage intervals for primary COVID-19 vaccine series.