Published:
September 1, 2021

Removal of spacing requirements between COVID-19 vaccine and other Schedule vaccines

All the vaccines on the National Immunisation Schedule can now be given concurrently, immediately before or after the mRNA-COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty, with the exception of the shingles vaccine (Zostavax). This includes MMR, influenza, HPV (Gardasil 9), tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Boostrix) and the meningococcal vaccines (Bexsero and Menactra).

Cartoon image of a man showing his arm where he received a vaccination

All the vaccines on the National Immunisation Schedule can now be given concurrently, immediately before or after the mRNA-COVID-19 vaccine, Comirnaty, with the exception of the shingles vaccine (Zostavax). This includes MMR, influenza, HPV (Gardasil 9), tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Boostrix) and the meningococcal vaccines (Bexsero and Menactra). See the IMAC COVID-19 programme page, here, for further information.

To ensure a good immune response in older adults, spacing of at least 7 days is recommended between Comirnaty and Zostavax. There are no safety concerns if this timing is not possible.