03/29/2022

FDA Authorizes Second Coronavirus Booster Shot for People 50 and Older

The shots aren't a permanent solution to the pandemic

Today, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized a second booster shot of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna coronavirus vaccines for people 50 and older, a decision intended to help shore up protection against severe illness.

The shots, which can be given at least four months after a first booster dose, are not a permanent solution to the pandemic. But with a still-more-transmissible version of the omicron coronavirus variant becoming dominant in the United States, even a short-term immunity boost among those at risk of severe illness could provide a valuable layer of protection.

The announcement from the FDA also included an update for people who are immuno-compromised. They are now eligible for an additional booster, too. Most initially received a series of three vaccinations and have already been eligible for one booster. Now, they, too, may get a second booster, meaning they can receive a total of five shots.

Please select this link to read the complete article from The Washington Post.