GPs providing COVID-19 inoculations with the Pfizer vaccine can increase the yield of multidose vials and squeeze out an additional seventh dose with careful technique, doctors say.

Many general practices began administering the mRNA vaccine to eligible patients on 5 July, with more than 1300 GP clinics expected to be administering it by the end of the month.

According to Pfizer, each multidose vial of the vaccine contains six doses (0.3mL each), provided a so-called ‘low dead volume’ syringe and needle are used to extract each dose.

Standard syringes and needles “may not be sufficient” to get the full six doses, the company told Australian Doctor, but did not comment on the option for a seventh dose.