Why Immunocompromised People Should Get an Additional COVID Vaccine, According to the CDC
If you are moderately or severely immunocompromised, including if you have had an organ transplant or are being treated for cancer, the CDC now recommends that you receive an additional dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
Who does this apply to?
The CDC recommends “moderate to severe” immunocompromise for anyone with a weakened immune system. As we said earlier, many immunocompromised people have good protection after two doses of mRNA vaccine, but some don’t. People with cancer and people who have had organ transplants are also among those who may not respond to the vaccine either.
CDC recommends considering a third dose if you have:
- Received active cancer treatment for tumors or blood cancer.
- You have received an organ transplant and are taking medication to suppress your immune system.
- Have received a stem cell transplant within the past 2 years or are taking medication to suppress the immune system.
- Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (eg, DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
- Delayed or untreated HIV infection
- Active treatment with high doses of corticosteroids or other medications that may suppress your immune response.
If you are unsure if you meet the criteria, they recommend consulting your doctor.
Okay, when do I need the next shot?
After your first two doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine on your regular schedule, you should return at least 28 days later for your third dose. If it was longer, that’s okay.
If possible, the vaccine should be the same as your original vaccine: if your first two doses were Moderna, your third should be Moderna. But if you don’t remember what you have, or if the one that you originally had is not available, then both are acceptable.
What if I get J&J?
This recommendation is only for people who have already received (or intend to receive) one of the mRNA vaccines – Pfizer or Moderna. This is because the data shows that some immunocompromised people may not be fully protected after two doses of these vaccines, but adding a third shot improves their protection. There is no data yet on whether booster vaccinations are needed or even whether the Johnson & Johnson / Janssen vaccine will help.