No side effects from vaccine 'mix and match'

No side effects have been recorded in Cyprus from the mixing of different vaccines, according to Dr. Elena Panagiotopoulou, Deputy Director of Pharmaceutical Services of the Ministry of Health.  She also stated that studies done by COREPAR indicate the mixing of two different vaccines is safe and effective and is recommended, noting that in Cyprus only mRNA vaccines are being administered as the third dose.

When asked if serious side effects arose from booster shots using a different vaccine from the original, Dr. Panagiotopoulou stated, "from the mix and match there was no report of side effects in Cyprus".

There was, however, an allergic reaction reported in an individual who received the Pfizer vaccine as a booster shot.  But the individual in question was previously vaccinated with Pfizer, so it was not related to mixing vaccines. According to Dr. Panagiotopoulou, the side effect was mild and immediately treated by a doctor.

Effective and acceptable mix and match

"There are very good indications for the mix and match that there is efficiency and safety, so it is recommended. It is generally prevalent in Europe that mix and match is effective and acceptable. It is a practice that is followed in all countries regarding the 2nd, but also the 3rd dose", Dr. Panagiatopoulou said.

More than 32 thousand citizens have been vaccinated with the 3rd dose

According to data from the Ministry of Health, as posted on the website of the Pharmaceutical Services, until October 19, 2021, a total of 601,051 people in Cyprus received the 1st dose of the vaccine, while a total of 566,481 people have completed the vaccination regimen with both doses.

It is noted that a total of 32,066 people received the 3rd booster dose.