On the afternoon of March 28, the Joint Mechanism of the State Council in Response to COVID-19 Prevention and Control held a press conference on the rollout and supply of COVID-19 vaccine. The following questions and answers have been provided to assist public understanding.

1. What if I am not sure whether the vaccine is suitable for me?

If for some reason vaccination is not allowed for a certain individual at this time, that person will not be given a vaccine. If any conditions that might affect vaccination apply to you, you must truthfully inform the doctor beforehand, so that the doctor can fully assess the suitability of your future vaccination.

2. How long does the vaccine offer protection?

The COVID-19 vaccine is a new vaccine. Based on antibody observations, its protection period is estimated to surpass six months. However, antibodies are not the only factor contributing to protection, so other factors also contribute to the vaccine's effectiveness. Therefore, relevant research will be conducted on the durability of the vaccine to confirm how long its protective effect lasts.

3. After the first dose, when is the best time to get the second dose?

After receiving the first dose of vaccine, the second dose should be received after an interval of at least three weeks. After three weeks, it is recommended that you receive the second dose as soon as possible, no more than eight weeks after the first dose.

4. If my vaccination coincides with a business or other trip, can I receive the second dose of vaccine in another location?

According to the Guide, it is recommended that the two doses of vaccine are of the same type from the same company. If a company's product is not available when you are getting your second dose in a different location, you may choose a product from a different production unit, but the vaccine must still be of the same type. 

5. If I miss my second dose, how can I make it up?

For those who have not completed the second or the third dose of COVID-19 vaccine as required, you should complete your course as soon as possible. The immunization process does not have to be restarted as the vaccine will take effect by completion of the corresponding doses.

Additional questions were also answered at the press conference, including "If I've already completed the COVID-19 vaccine, do I need to be vaccinated again?", "What are the preventive effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?", "How is supply of the COVID-19 vaccine to be guaranteed?", and "Will foreign virus mutations affect the effectiveness of the existing vaccine?"

(Note: Content source is from Beijing Daily.)