Californians getting the COVID-19 vaccine should be mindful of the interval between the first and second doses for either vaccine on the market.
Currently, the COVID-19 vaccines available require two shots. Pfizer's shots should be taken three weeks apart and Moderna's four weeks apart. The state changed its guidelines for dose timing this week, saying that if you can't get the second shot at those recommended intervals, second doses may be given up to six weeks after the first doses. Previously, the state's public health department stated there was no maximum interval between the first and second doses for either vaccine. While there is a new recommendation, health officials say if you really can't get the second dose within the six weeks, there is no need to start over.