Below are the final booster vaccine recommendations.
Moderna and J&J Booster Vaccines Available:
Moderna Vaccines:
- Booster vaccine recommendations are the same as with Pfizer (please refer back to our previous email)
- Recipients are given a half-dose injection, as this seems to have provided the same level of protection as a larger dose
J&J Vaccines:
- Any person who received a J&J vaccine is eligible for a second dose, separated by 2 months
- Data appears that J&J, although effective at one dose, performs better as a two dose vaccine
Mixing Vaccine Types:
- You are allowed to mix vaccine types, based on availability and patient preference
- CDC and FDA currently recommend that you try to stick with the same vaccine but no harm seen if you choose a different type
My Personal Thoughts:
- Very small, preliminary studies do show that mixing vaccine types may have added protection, especially if you had J&J as your first vaccine
- It appears that Moderna offers a stronger antibody response as a booster than Pfizer
- This is very early data and subject to change as we see more studies. But since safety has already been established for these COVID vaccines, I see no harm in considering this strategy for added protection
Lastly, there is a large group of people that received an mRNA vaccine but do not meet criteria for a COVID vaccine booster. Based on available data, healthier and younger individuals continue to have longer-lasting antibody responses. This is great news!
We will continue to watch for evidence of when booster vaccines for this healthier population will be needed.
Stay Healthy,
Troy Jackson, MD
