CDC Recommends Additional COVID-19 Booster Shot

The CDC updated its COVID-19 vaccine booster recommendations March 30, noting certain groups of people should sign up for an additional shot. 

The CDC is recommending people who are over 50 or who have certain immunocompromising conditions should get a second Moderna or Pfizer booster shot four months after their latest booster. 

For most people, that means a fourth mRNA shot to increase their protection against severe COVID-19 disease.

People who received their primary and booster vaccine from Johnson & Johnson should get an mRNA (Moderna or Pfizer) vaccine for their next booster, according to the CDC. 

The CDC cited a recent study looking at vaccine effectiveness, specifically emergency room and urgent care visits, as well as hospitalizations, to guide their latest mRNA vaccine push. 

“This is especially important for those 65 and older and those 50 and older with underlying medical conditions that increase their risk for severe disease from COVID-19 as they are most likely to benefit from receiving an additional booster dose at this time,” CDC director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said.