Ema: vaccine mix could be used, but little data so far

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June 17, 2021 "Based on past experiences", mixing vaccines "seems like a strategy that can be used, but there is limited evidence on Covid-19 ones and it is important to gather more information and monitor carefully". This was stated by the head of Vaccines and Therapeutic Products of the EMA, Marco Cavaleri.

"From an EMA perspective, it is not easy at this stage to make a clear recommendation" on the vaccine mix, "also because it is not clear whether the company has an interest in seeking authorization to add product information." But as soon as we have more data, for example from the British study, we will consider whether to make a statement on the mix ", adds Cavaleri.

"We have seen based on data from the UK that the first dose of the Astrazeneca vaccine is effective against the Delta variant, but a second dose would significantly increase protection. As the protection with the first dose is low against the variant. Alpha that we see circulating in Europe, it would be important that the interval between the two doses be shortened ".

The Astrazeneca vaccine "was approved in the EU on the basis of administering two doses, and therefore in principle, according to the product information, a second dose should be given in an interval between four and twelve weeks". Whether a country for a number of reasons "wants to mix with an mRna vaccine" is up to the country to decide. "Based on the evidence we have this is not problematic, but the level of evidence is low and therefore we need to remain vigilant."