Because of the rapid spread of the more contagious Delta variant in Germany, the Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) is adapting its vaccination recommendations. For example, people who have received a first syringe with the vector vaccine from Astra Zeneca will in future receive an mRNA vaccine such as Biontech or Moderna as a second dose, regardless of age, the panel announced on Thursday. The interval between the first and second dose should then be at least four weeks.
The experts justify this advice by stating that the immune response after the administration of two different preparations – first vector, then mRNA vaccine – is “clearly superior” to the immune response after two doses of Astra Zeneca. Experts speak of a heterologous vaccination schedule. Stiko had previously only recommended this to younger people who had already received an initial vaccination with Astra Zeneca before this vaccine was only recommended for those aged 60 and over who would like to be vaccinated.
The Stiko emphasized that in view of the significantly more contagious Delta variant, it was important to “take the second vaccine dose in a timely manner”. After just one dose of vaccine, protection against Delta appears to be “significantly reduced”. The protection against severe disease courses by Delta is similarly good after full vaccination compared to protection against other corona variants, it said, citing data from Great Britain.
The Stiko now recommended the following intervals between the two required vaccine doses: three to six weeks at Biontech / Pfizer, four to six weeks at Moderna, nine to twelve weeks at Astra Zeneca (if someone else should be vaccinated twice with it) and ” from four weeks “with the combination of Astra Zeneca and mRNA vaccine.