CDC and FDA Recommend 2nd Booster for Older and Immunocompromised Individuals
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and FDA are updating their recommendations to allow certain immunocompromised individuals as well as people over 50 years old who have been vaccinated with an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago, can now receive another mRNA vaccine in order increase protection against severe disease from COVID -19.
A 2nd booster dose (either Pfizer or Moderna) has been approved for the following groups:
Age 50 years or older who received a COVID-19 vaccine booster at least 4 months ago may receive either Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, OR
Age 18 or above who are immunocompromised* may receive a 2nd booster dose of either Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, OR
Age 12-18 who are immunocompromised* may receive a 2nd booster dose of Pfizer.
*For people who are immunocompromised and may have already received 4 doses of vaccine, they are eligible to receive a 5th dose (2nd booster) 4 months after their 1st booster dose.
The definition for being “up to date” with COVID-19 vaccines has not changed. It is still individuals who have received their primary series and their 1st booster dose (if eligible). It does not include the 2nd booster dose as this 2nd dose is not required, just recommended.
