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CDC updates COVID-19 vaccine guidelines

ORLANDO, Fla. — Despite no clinical trials or research to support it, the CDC says it’s okay for people to mix up their first and second doses of the coronavirus vaccine.

CDC officials add that vaccine mixing should only be done in certain circumstances.

READ: After speedy start, Orlando VA runs out of COVID-19 vaccine

In addition to approving vaccine switching, the CDC also updated their guidance on when the second dose of the vaccine should be administered.

Pfizer calls for three weeks to pass between the first and second doses of their vaccine. Moderna recommends four weeks.

Now, the CDC says patients can wait up to six weeks to receive the second dose if going earlier isn’t an option.

The CDC says people should receive the same product for both doses of the vaccine.

READ: Some COVID-19 shots being thrown away before use, leaving fewer vaccinated from COVID-19

However, last week, they added an exception for certain circumstances under which providers can switch between the vaccines if the second dose must be fulfilled.

The CDC also says the second dose should be administered as close to the recommended intervals as possible, but if it’s not an option, the second dose can be pushed back for up to six weeks.

Dr. Anthony Fauci agrees with the CDC’s flexibility.

“They’re saying, practically speaking, if you’ve got to do that, it very likely is not going to make a big difference.”

In response to the new guidance, Orange County Health Officer Dr. Raul Pino says the county is scheduling its second doses of the vaccine about 30 days after the first doses, regardless of which vaccine they’re taking.

READ: What happens if the second dose of your COVID-19 vaccine is delayed?

Dr. Pino says they’re not expecting to have to switch between vaccines.

“But it could be that one day, we have not received a shipment. We have something else in storage. We will use it if the people agree to take it that day. Of course, people will have the choice.”