CANBERRANS can now get their second dose of AstraZeneca between four and eight weeks after their first dose.

The changed advice comes as the territory faces the COVID-19 Delta variant.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the change was based on advice from the ACT chief health officer, Dr Kerryn Coleman, in line with guidance from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation.

Given the increased transmissibility of the Delta variant, Dr Coleman said it’s now recommended that people have their second dose within the four to eight week range.

“Bringing forward your second dose may have a small effect on long-term protection of AstraZeneca vaccine but will make sure you are protected earlier,” she said.

“We know the vaccines are very effective at preventing illness and death. The Delta variant is easier to catch and most importantly is right here in our community.

“While the lockdown is helping to keep the number of cases under control the best thing we can all do to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community, is to get vaccinated as soon as we can.”

Following the new advice, Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith encouraged anyone with an existing AstraZeneca booking at the ACT government’s Calvary Mass Vaccination Clinic to bring their second-dose forward.

Anyone with a second-dose appointment already booked in will receive a message letting them know they are able to have their second dose sooner.

“You can reschedule your appointment online using the MyDHR portal or by phoning the COVID-19 vaccination booking line on (02) 5124 7700 between 7am and 7pm,” the health minister said.

More information at covid19.act.gov.au/vaccine