UAE: Is it possible to take a second dose of COVID-19 vaccine from another manufacturer?

Dubai: In a series of posts on its official social media channels, the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) answered some frequently asked questions related to the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Ministry initially posted a clarification on the number of doses of the COVID-19, stating that the COVID-19 vaccine comprises of two doses, taken separately with a gap of three to four weeks between the doses.

I may not be available for the second dose, can the appointment be changed to another day?

Responding to this query, MOHAP said that it is important to keep a record of the appointment for the second dose and make sure you adhere to the date, to ensure the required level of immunity and receive maximum benefit from the vaccine.

“It is recommended to take the second dose at the same vaccination site where the first dose was taken,” the Ministry added.

Is it possible to take the second dose of the vaccine from another manufacturer?

“Two doses of the vaccine should be taken from the same manufacturer to ensure vaccine safety and effectiveness,” the Ministry said.

Who can take the vaccine?

On its social media channels, the Ministry also said that while the vaccine was available to those above 16 years of age, it is recommended to give priority to individuals who are most likely to develop complications due to the disease.

On February 7, the Ministry announced that it had dedicated its vaccination centres only for elderly people and those with chronic diseases.

It added that over the next four to six weeks the vaccine rollout will be focused on elderly people and those with chronic diseases who are the most vulnerable to COVID-19.

During this period, other segments of society may get vaccinated after prior appointment with inoculation centres available across the country.

For more information, you can call the Ministry of Health and Prevention on its hotline number 800 111 11.