Recent updates regarding the COVID vaccine and the need for booster shots have been emerging in the news as the best way to help protect against serious illness and possible hospitalization due to COVID- 19. As we all want to stay as safe, healthy and educated as possible, we thought it best to share some information regarding these vaccine updates.
Do I need to get a COVID-19 vaccine booster?
Recent data is suggesting that the effectiveness of the vaccine at preventing infection or severe illness wanes over time, especially in people ages 65 years and older making yes, the best answer to this question. Newer variants of the COVID-19 virus are also further emphasizing the importance of getting the vaccine and boosters as well.
At this time, the CDC recommends everyone ages 12 and older get a booster for the best protection against serious illness from COVID-19.
Data show that an mRNA booster increases the immune response, which improves protection against getting a serious COVID-19 infection.
Do the COVID-19 vaccines work if we now need to receive booster shots?
The answer is yes. The COVID-19 vaccines are working well to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death. However, public health experts see reduced protection over time against mild and moderate disease, especially among certain populations.
Do boosters use the same ingredients as existing vaccines?
Yes, the COVID-19 boosters are the same ingredients (formulation) as the current COVID-19 vaccines. In the case of a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine booster, the dose is half of the amount of the vaccine people get for their primary series.
What are the risks to getting a booster?
Adults and children may have some side effects from a COVID-19 vaccine, including pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, and nausea. Serious side effects are rare, but may occur.
Am I still considered “fully vaccinated” if I don’t get a booster?
Yes, the definition of fully vaccinated has not changed and does not include a booster. Everyone is still considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose series, such as the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after the single-dose J&J/Janssen vaccine. Fully vaccinated, however, is not the same as having the best protection. People are best protected when they stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, which includes getting boosters when eligible.
Does the definition of “up to date” include a booster?
It depends. Everyone ages 12 years and older is considered up to date until the time they are eligible for their first booster — which is 5 months after the second dose for Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, or two months after the J&J/Janssen vaccine. After this time period, they need to get a booster of the COVID- 19 vaccine to be considered up to date. Getting a second booster is not necessary to be considered up to date at this time. Learn more about COVID-19 booster recommendations.
If I have received a J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine is a booster still recommended?
People (except those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised) who first received a J&J/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine should also consider receiving a booster shot. At this time, it is being recommended that they receive one of the mRNA vaccines as a booster. Speak to your provider if you have received the J&J vaccine previously and are now eligible for a booster shot.
We hope this information was useful and that you will continue to educate yourself on the best ways to stay healthy and safe. If you have any questions or comments or would like help finding out where you can receive a booster, please reach out to us at VITALity. Until next time, stay safe, healthy and well.
