The Centre is discussing on further reducing the gap between 2 doses of Covishield. The current gap is 12 to 16 weeks between the 2 doses. It may be noted that initially the gap was set at 4 to 6 weeks, followed by 4 to 8 weeks and then 12 to 16 weeks.

It was stated by the chairman of the Covid-19 working group that the gap between 2 doses of Covishield may be minimized but only for people who are 45 years of age and above. The decision to extend the gap to 12 to 16 weeks was criticized a lot and was regarded as an attempt to address the shortage of vaccines faced by the country.

Experts have, however, claimed that the decision was based on new international scientific studies that showed that a longer gap between dosages produced more antibodies. In June when the gap was extended, studies claimed that the effectiveness of 1st shot of Covishield had been overestimated and post this the gap was reduced between 2 doses by various countries.  

Sources also state that now that the country has many other vaccines available, the gap can be reduced and more people can be covered through the vaccination drive by administering both doses within appropriate time.

(source:media reports)