Please can someone give me an answer on this? AZ after 12 weeks

[Ointb]

I have tried to find the information online and even tried asking my surgery but no one can give me a straight answer.

I had my first AZ vaccine on Feb 18th - minimal side effects - I am 39 years old - I then made my booking for my 2nd within 12 weeks but they accidentally cancelled it because the automated system thought it was my first and I was under 40.

Then I got cold feed and didn’t rebook straight away and then came to my senses and rebooked for tomorrow- so it’s more like 14+ weeks - is it still ok to get it? Is my first one still effective?

Basically, what happens if you go over 12 weeks?! Thanks

Cold feet obviously!

And when I say online I mean the government/NHS sites and guidance

Yes, it's absolutely fine. Happens quite often eg if someone is unwell when second dose is due. Best thing is to go ahead and get your second dose as soon as you can.

Great, thank you. So both doses will still be valid and not less effective because of the gap? :-)

They may well be more effective with the longer gap. AZ was tested with various gaps, the longest being 12 weeks and the highest immunity was achieved with the longest interval between doses. It's just that they haven't got data for longer gaps.

Fwiw I think Canada is using gaps up to 4 months.
I don't think longer intervals have been scientifically validated but I'm pretty sure it would be better to have the second dose than not. Obviously check with your doctor if you're worried.

Basically, what happens if you go over 12 weeks?!

As long as you don't go over 17 weeks, you should be OK.

In fact, the interval of 12 to 16 weeks produced the highest efficacy during clinical trials.