COVID-19 : Booster Shots
This month, the CDC released new guidance concerning COVID-19 vaccine booster shots.
Alongside the FDA, the CDC currently recommends the booster shot for individuals who have received a full series of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (at least 6 months after their initial series of shots) and are:
- Age 65 years and older
- Age 18+ who live in health care or long-term care settings
- Age 18+ who has underlying medical conditions
- Age 18+ who works or lives in a high-risk setting
The CDC further states that, “for the nearly 15 million people who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and who were vaccinated two or more months ago.”
New data suggests that, while the current series of COVID-19 vaccines is highly effective in the fight against the virus, like other vaccines their efficacy can wane over time.
As the Delta Variant continues to spread globally, many health professionals agree that getting the booster shot should be a top priority for the aforementioned groups. It is likely that this recommendation will be expanded to include all adults age 18+ in the coming months.
Booster shots are designed to keep the initial dose of a vaccine strong after a certain period of time. They are an additional dose of a vaccine used to give your immune system a “boost.” Common booster shots include measles, tetanus, and diphtheria.
The vaccine remains the most effective way for individuals to protect themselves and others against the ill-effects of COVID-19. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit the VI Department of Health’s resource page; the CDC’s Vaccine FAQ page, and the Johns Hopkins guide for fully vaccinated individuals.
You can also check out our vaccine Q&A with Sandy Colasacco, a Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and the Clinical Executive Director of Island Health and Wellness.