As of October 2021, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has stated that the Pfizer, Moderna, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccines are available for those who are eligible for a booster shot. Continue reading below to find information on eligibility and frequently asked questions about booster shots.
Eligibility
1st Booster:
The CDC recommends a booster of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 5 months after the final dose of their first vaccination series. For those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, a booster is recommended at least 3 months after the final dose of their first vaccination series. For those who initially received the Johnson&Johnson vaccine, it is recommended to receive a booster of either Pfizer or Moderna at least 2 months after the primary vaccination.
2nd Booster:
The CDC recommends the 2nd booster of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 4 months after the 1st booster for adults ages 50 and older or people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.
1st Booster:
The CDC recommends a booster of the Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months after the final dose of their first vaccination series. For those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, a booster is recommended at least 3 months after the final dose of their first vaccination series.
2nd Booster:
The CDC recommends the 2nd booster the Pfizer vaccine at least 4 months after the 1st booster for children and teens who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.
1st Booster:
The CDC recommends a booster of the Pfizer vaccine for children at least 5 months after the final dose of their first vaccination series. For children who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, a booster is recommended at least 3 months after the final dose of their first vaccination series.
2nd Booster:
The CDC does not recommend 2nd boosters for anyone in this age group at this time.
To read more about COVID-19 booster shots and eligibility, visit the CDC’s website here.
Why should I consider getting a booster shot?
Recent data suggest that the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time, especially for certain groups of people, like those over 65 years of age. Additionally, the emergence of variants with increased transmissibility, like Delta and Omicron, can influence vaccine effectiveness. Booster shots, in addition to other precautions, are important for maintaining protection against COVID-19 infection.
How do I choose which booster shot to receive?
If you are 18 years or older, you are able to decide which type of booster shot you would like to receive. While some might prefer to have the same type of booster shot that they originally received, the CDC’s recommendations allow for individuals to mix and match their booster shot decision. However, it is important to note that the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine has lower effectiveness over time compared to the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.
At this time, children and teens may only receive the Pfizer booster shot.
Are booster shots the same formulation as the first round of vaccines?
Yes, the booster shots are the same formulation as the existing COVID-19 vaccines from your first round of vaccination. However, the Moderna booster shot is half of the dose of the vaccine that people received for their initial series of COVID-19 vaccination.
When can I receive the COVID-19 booster shot if I am not currently in an eligible group?
As more data becomes available, additional populations might be recommended to receive booster shots. Experts are continuing to examine the available data to understand how well the vaccines are working in different populations.