COVID-19 vaccines are found to be effective in lowering the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death. However, the efficacy of the vaccine may decrease over time. To help strengthen and prolong protection from COVID, vaccine boosters or additional shots are recommended for individuals who are fully vaccinated but may be at an increased risk for infection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both recommend COVID-19 vaccine boosters for those who fit certain criteria.
According to the CDC, individuals who received the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine, are eligible for a booster if they are:
- 65 years or older
- Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
- Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
- Age 18+ who work or live-in high-risk settings
Booster shots for the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine are recommended six months after receiving your second dose. You can get any of the vaccines authorized in the U.S.
If you received Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine, you are eligible for a booster if you are 18 years old or older. Getting any of the boosters authorized in the U.S. two months after vaccination is recommended.
Side effects to booster shots may vary, the CDC states, “Reactions reported after getting a booster shot were similar to that of the 2-shot or single-dose initial series. Fever, headache, fatigue and pain at the injection site were the most commonly reported side effects, and overall, most side effects were mild to moderate. However, as with the 2-shot or single-dose initial series, serious side effects are rare, but may occur.”
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.