With the release of the Covid-19 booster shot, many people have questions and concerns. Am I eligible? Is it safe? How does it work? The booster shot is designed to give the immune system added strength against the coronavirus and has been released by Pfizer, Moderna and J&J.
We’re here to explain the basic facts and hopefully provide a better understanding.
1) Eligibility for the booster shot depends on several factors.
Not everyone is eligible for the booster at this time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines eligibility requirements as follows:
You received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine
- You completed your primary series at least 6 months ago
- You are 65 or older
- You are 18+ and have an underlying medical condition
- You are 18+ and work or live in a high-risk setting
You received the J&J vaccine
- You had your initial vaccine at least two months ago
- You are 18 or older
2) Covid-19 booster shots are widely available.
Just like the original Covid-19 vaccines, you can find booster shots at doctor’s offices, clinics and pharmacies. They are free. While no ID is required, it’s a good idea to bring your original vaccination card so healthcare providers can update your card with the booster information.
3) Side effects may be possible with the booster shots.
Reported side effects from the booster shot are similar to the original vaccine doses. Mild to moderate side effects vary according to the shot received, but generally include temporary soreness or pain at the injection site, fatigue, chills, headache, and muscle aches. Nausea and fever are possible but reportedly less common. Side effects last up to a few days.
4) Studies indicate mixing vaccine types is allowed.
Current recommendations approve mixing vaccines from different manufacturers. For example, this means if you received the original two Pfizer doses, it’s OK to get the Moderna booster. Or, if you’ve received the one J&J shot, you can choose another type like the Pfizer or Moderna as the booster.
5) What the future holds for more boosters.
It’s not clear yet if more Covid-19 boosters will be needed to fight the coronavirus or any variants. Certain vaccines like the flu, whooping cough, tetanus and others have required multiple shots to keep populations safe, so this idea isn’t unusual. For the moment, research studies haven’t indicated for sure the need for more boosters.
As with any medical decision, we recommend visiting with your primary care physician about any concerns, including those about Covid-19 vaccines, boosters, and your own personal health picture.
Information about COVID-19 changes often. We encourage you to stay up to date on current risks and recommendations. At each Conviva Care Center, we follow the latest CDC guidelines to prevent disease transmission and deliver safe primary care.