NATIONAL COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAMME CIRCULAR 3 OF 2022 CO-ADMINISTRATION OF COVID-19 AND OTHER VACCINES

TO:

HEADS OF PROVINCIAL HEALTH DEPARTMENTS
DISTRICT, HOSPITAL AND PHC MANAGERS
COVID-19 VACCINE PROGRAMME MANAGERS
COVID-19 VACCINATION SITE MANAGERS
COVID-19 VACCINATORS

NATIONAL COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAMME CIRCULAR 3 OF 2022
CO-ADMINISTRATION OF COVID-19 AND OTHER VACCINES

1. COVID-19 vaccines are effective, and provide protection against COVID-19 infection.

Likewise, prevention of other communicable diseases requires vaccination against these diseases. As COVID-19 vaccinations become available as part of routine health services, it is increasing likely that co-administration of COVID-19 and other vaccines will be required. Whilst the COVID-19 vaccination programme initially recommended a 14-day interval between an individual receiving a COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccination, this is no longer required.

2. COVID-19 vaccines may therefore be co-administered with other vaccines (including live, attenuated vaccines). This may be at the same visit, or at another visit without regard to timing. It is recommended that the COVID-19 vaccine be administered to the left arm and the additional vaccine be administered to the right arm, noting the arm of administration on the vaccination record, where possible.

3. Co-administration of vaccines is essential to increase the immunisation coverage of all vaccines including but not limited to, influenza and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. Health care workers are encouraged to review the vaccinee’s immunisation history, identify any vaccines that the vaccinee may be eligible to receive (based on relevant vaccine schedules) and administer the required vaccines.

DR SSS BUTHELEZI

DIRECTOR-GENERAL: HEALTH

DATE: 20/02/2