What to do if you missed your second COVID-19 shot?

Accidentally or on purpose, a lot of people miss their second COVID-19 shot.

According to the New York Times, about 5 million people have missed their second round of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations. Experts suggest that this is because people can’t take the time, don’t have adequate internet knowledge, or believe that this first shot offers adequate protection. There is also a belief that the second round of shooting provokes stronger reactions, which makes people fearful of getting their second round.

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While 5 million people sound like a lot, vaccines that require a booster shot have a greater percentage of people missing their final round. “I thought that [CDC data] was pretty encouraging. While 8% are still millions of people, it still means the vast majority of people are going back to their second shot, which is really good compared to many other vaccines, ”said virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen told DW.

While the first round of shots is believed to provide virus protection up to 80%, the consequences of not receiving the second booster shot are unknown. The protection from the first shot could fade without the influence of the second.

If you’ve had your first round and haven’t received a booster after a month, do your best to get your second dose. (Technically, you have up to six weeks to complete your follow-up exam.)

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“It is likely that a second shot at a later stage will still be very beneficial,” said Dr. Dan Barouch told ABC News. While most experts don’t know the side effects of waiting longer for your second shot, they believe the second round will provide a decent response no matter what time the booster arrives.

One thing is clear: the more people wait for their second round of the COVID-19 vaccine, the more they expose themselves and others to the virus.