Moderna Second Dose, Available to Everyone After 4 Weeks

Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine [Image Source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Chun-hee] The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine dosing interval, which had been gradually adjusted, will now be uniformly set to 4 weeks after the first dose.

The COVID-19 Vaccination Response Promotion Team announced on the 8th that from the 9th, the Moderna vaccine dosing interval can be individually changed to 4 weeks after the first dose through the online reservation website.

Originally, the Moderna vaccine was developed with a 4-week dosing interval, but due to recent supply shortages of vaccines introduced domestically, the interval for both Moderna and Pfizer vaccines was uniformly changed to 6 weeks. As supply has somewhat improved, the authorities have been gradually adjusting the dosing intervals for both vaccines. Those receiving their second dose by the 10th will follow the previously notified 6-week interval from the first dose; those receiving their second dose between the 11th and next month’s 7th will follow a 5-week interval; and those receiving their second dose from the 8th of next month onward will follow a 4-week interval.

However, the Promotion Team stated, "It is judged that there is sufficient supply of the Moderna vaccine at vaccination centers currently," and requested that individuals wishing to complete their vaccination quickly actively change their second dose reservation to 4 weeks after the first dose. This adjustment applies only to the Moderna vaccine; Pfizer vaccine recipients will follow the previously notified phased interval adjustment.

A representative from the Promotion Team said, "Through this measure, by completing the second dose more quickly, we expect to respond effectively to the spread of the Delta variant and other quarantine situations, while also achieving the goal of 70% nationwide vaccination completion a little sooner."