Did you get the Pfizer vaccine? See new CDC guidance on booster shots

You may have heard that – for people who received the Pfizer COVID vaccine – an additional dose or booster is recommended for certain groups.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that people who received the Pfizer vaccine and are age 65 or older should receive a booster shot at least 6 months after receiving the second dose of the vaccine. You may also be eligible if you have underlying medical conditions, live in a long-term care facility, or have a job that puts you at higher risk of infection. You will find all the guidance on who should have a COVID booster below.

The only booster at this time is for Pfizer. Guidance on boosters for those who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine is expected soon.

With flu season approaching, we want you to know it is safe to get both the COVID and flu vaccines at the same time.

Where to get a booster dose

• In the Portland area, call 971-326-8718 and choose option 4 to schedule an appointment at one of our Providence Medical Group clinics or drive-through clinics located in Portland, Hillsboro, and Tigard.  
• Many pharmacies offer the Pfizer booster:
  • If you live in Oregon, check getvaccinated.oregon.gov for availability.
  • If you live in Washington, check Vaccinate WA: Find COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments Near You.

COVID vaccines are highly effective in preventing virus-related hospitalizations and deaths. Boosters are recommended because the Pfizer vaccine may become less effective against the virus after a period of many months. This is especially true for older adults. A booster shot will strengthen your body’s ability to prevent COVID.

Current booster guidance from U.S. health authorities 

• For those who received the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and have moderately to severely compromised immune systems: 
  • The CDC recommends that these individuals receive a third dose of the vaccine at least 28 days or more after the second dose. 
• For those who received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and are in one of the following groups:
  • 65 or older
  • living in a long-term care setting 
  • 50-64 years old with underlying medical conditions 
• The CDC states that these individuals should receive a booster shot at least six months or more after the completion of the initial two-dose series. 
• For those who received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and are 18-49 years old with underlying medical conditions:
  • The CDC states that these individuals may receive a booster shot at least six months or more after the completion of the initial two-dose series. 
• For those who received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine and are 18-64 years old with a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 due to occupational or institutional setting: 
  • The CDC states that these individuals may receive a booster shot at least six months or more after the completion of the initial series. 

Booster guidance for those who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine is expected soon.

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