CDC now calls for earlier booster and additional primary dose for certain children

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is updating its recommendation for when many people can receive a booster shot, shortening the interval from 6 months to 5 months for people who received the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine. 

In a media release yesterday, the CDC explained that this means people can now receive an mRNA booster shot 5 months after completing their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series.  The booster interval recommendation for people who received the J&J vaccine (2 months) or the Moderna vaccine (6 months), has not changed.  

Additionally, consistent with a prior recommendation for adults, the CDC is recommending that moderately or severely immunocompromised 5–11-year-olds receive an additional primary dose of vaccine 28 days after their second shot. 

At this time, only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorized and recommended for children aged 5-11. 

“As we have done throughout the pandemic, we will continue to update our recommendations to ensure the best possible protection for the American people,” CDC Director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky said. 

“Following the FDA’s authorizations, today’s recommendations ensure people are able to get a boost of protection in the face of Omicron and increasing cases across the country, and ensure that the most vulnerable children can get an additional dose to optimize protection against COVID-19.

“If you or your children are eligible for a third dose or a booster, please go out and get one as soon as you can.  Additionally, FDA took action this week to authorize boosters for 12-15 year olds – and I look forward to ACIP meeting on Wednesday to discuss this issue.,” Dr. Walensky concluded.