The interval gap (or ‘dosing interval’) is the minimum time between COVID-19 vaccines. Times vary depending on how many COVID-19 vaccinations you’ve already had, what vaccine type you’re getting, and if you’ve recently had COVID-19. Some vaccine combinations may also require a prescription. The interval gap is to ensure vaccine effectiveness and safety.
Last updated: 27 September 2022
On this page:
- First and second dose timing
- Second dose and first booster timing
- First and second booster minimum gap
- Second dose and third primary dose timing
- How to get a prescription
- Timings if you’re having non-COVID-19 vaccines
On another page:
First dose and second dose minimum gap
First dose |
Second dose |
Minimum gap |
Age |
---|---|---|---|
Pfizer |
Pfizer |
3 weeks |
12 and over |
Pfizer paediatric (child) |
Pfizer paediatric (child) |
8 weeks |
5 to 11 |
Pfizer paediatric (child) | Pfizer (adult) | 8 weeks * this gap can be shortened to 3 weeks in limited circumstances, such as prior to the initiation of significant immunosuppression or international travel |
11 to 12 |
Pfizer paediatric (child) | Novavax |
8 weeks |
11 to 12 |
Novavax |
Novavax |
3 weeks |
12 and over |
Pfizer |
Novavax |
4 weeks |
18 and over |
All other combinations |
4 weeks |
Second dose and first booster minimum gap
*These interval times are the same if you’ve had a third primary dose and you’re getting a first booster.
Second dose |
First |
Minimum gap |
Age/eligibility |
---|---|---|---|
Pfizer |
Pfizer |
3 months |
18 and over |
Pfizer |
Pfizer |
6 months |
16 or 17 |
Pfizer |
Novavax |
6 months |
18 and over |
Novavax |
Novavax |
6 months |
18 and over |
Novavax |
Pfizer |
6 months |
18 and over |
All other combinations |
Prescription might be needed – discuss with your GP or healthcare provider |
First and second booster minimum gap
First booster |
Second booster |
Minimum gap |
Age/eligibility |
|
---|---|---|---|---|
Pfizer |
Pfizer |
6 months |
16 and over |
|
Novavax |
Novavax |
6 months |
18 and over |
|
All other combinations |
6 months |
Second dose and third primary dose minimum gap
(Severely immunocompromised people only)
Second dose |
Third primary dose |
Minimum gap |
Age |
---|---|---|---|
Pfizer |
Pfizer |
At least 8 weeks |
5 and over |
All other combinations |
Prescription needed – discuss with your GP or healthcare provider |
How to get a prescription
If you need a prescription, prior to your appointment at the vaccination clinic, visit your preferred GP to discuss your options. Appointments to discuss COVID-19 vaccine options and obtain a prescription are free.
It's also possible to get a prescription at a vaccinating Novavax clinic when you arrive for your appointment – first, you’ll need to talk with the vaccination site’s clinical lead.
Severely immunocompromised people who wish to receive a third primary dose will need to get a prescription from their usual healthcare provider. We recommend you schedule a free appointment with your usual healthcare provider.
COVID-19 vaccine: Severely immunocompromised people
Non-COVID-19 vaccines
If you’re having a Zostavax shingles vaccine, a 7-day gap before or after a COVID-19 vaccine is recommended.
For Novavax, a 3-day gap is needed for if you’re having a Shingrix shingles vaccine, or the Fluad Quad flu vaccine.
All other vaccines may be administered before, after, or at the same time as any other COVID-19 vaccines.