AstraZeneca may be used as Sputnik V second dose if delayed

The Philippines may use AstraZeneca as a second dose for those who received Sputnik V if the second component of the Russian vaccine is delayed.

This contingency plan was confirmed by Vaccine Czar Carlito Galvez Jr., stating that AstraZeneca could be an alternative.

15,000 doses of Sputnik V's second component arrived in Manila on Friday, August 13, and will be deployed as soon as possible to those who received the first component, particularly those nearing the 42-day interval.

The delivery of these doses was delayed due to production and supply challenges in Russia.

The Philippines has received a total of 285,000 doses of Sputnik V's first component and 80,000 doses of its second component.

The government will ensure full protection against SARS-CoV-2 for Sputnik V recipients, including using AstraZeneca shots if necessary, even with the arrival of the second dose.

The Philippines has previously explored vaccine mixing, and some local government units have previously halted Sputnik V use due to delivery issues.