CDC shortens waiting period for Pfizer booster shot to 5 months
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has announced that people who have received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination can get a booster shot five months after the second dose.
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CDC had recommended a waiting period of six months between the first two doses of the Pfizer vaccine and the booster shot.
However, the booster interval recommendation for people who received the J&J vaccine (two months) or the Moderna vaccine (six months), has not changed.
The CDC added that consistent with the prior recommendation for adults, it is recommending that moderately or severely immunocompromised five–eleven-year-olds receive an additional primary dose of vaccine 28 days after their second shot but only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorised and recommended for children within that age range.
According to the Director of the Centers, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, there will be a continuous update on recommendations for the American people
“As we have done throughout the pandemic, we will continue to update our recommendations to ensure the best possible protection for the American people.
“Following the FDA’s authoriSations, today y’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 optimiSe 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 authorise boosters for 12-15 yea15-year-olds I look forward to ACIP meeting on Wednesday to discuss this issue,” Walensky said.
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