Skipping second dose of COVID vaccine could lead to virus spreading, mutating, experts say

SAN DIEGO — As Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine begins circulating, there is another big logistical challenge ahead: reminding people to get the second dose.

Both vaccines developed by Pfizer and Moderna require two doses spaced several weeks apart. People who get immunized often feel fatigued or sore shortly after the shot and may experience fever, particularly after the second dose, according to clinical trial data.

Doctors say those immediate, short-term side effects are a positive sign the immune system is revving up production.

The side effects are similar to that of the shingles vaccine. But studies show about 20 percent of the people who get the shingles vaccine skip the second dose.

Experts say if that happens with the COVID vaccines, there could be consequences.

The worst-case scenario is that skipping the second shot could allow the virus to spread and mutate, and potentially build resistance to the vaccines, according to Penn State University biologist David Kennedy.Read                                               Full Article Here