On October 22, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new recommendations for expanding the booster COVID vaccine. The new guidance includes the ability to mix and match with a booster vaccine that is different from the primary series received.
The booster recommendations for all three available COVID vaccines are as follows:
Pfizer Recipients
The following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after the initial series:
- 65 years and 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
Moderna Recipients
The following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after the initial series:
- 65 years and 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
Johnson & Johnson Recipients
Everyone 18 and over is eligible for a booster shot two months or more after the initial vaccine.
All recipients of any vaccine may choose which vaccine to receive as a booster dose. Some people may prefer the vaccine type originally received and others may prefer to get a different booster. The CDC offers no guidance on selecting between vaccines at this time.