There has been some confusion about a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Rapid spread of the Delta variant and its dire effects has made people ask about the need for more protection. There are two categories of citizens and when they should get a third dose: Additional Doses for immunocompromised individuals vs the proposed Booster Dose for the general public.
The Additional Dose can be administered right now, to individuals with compromised immune systems. It must be at least 28 days since their second dose of either the Moderna or Pfizer product.
- This additional dose is intended to help immunocompromised individuals.
- They may not build enough immunity with only two doses.
- A third dose should improve their immune response.
The Booster Dose is intended to boost immunity among the general public, because their immune response may have declined over time.
- We believe it will be best to administer a third dose eight months after the second dose of Moderna and Pfizer.
- The EUA and CDC recommendations for a booster dose have not occurred yet.
- Boosters cannot be administered at this time.
WCHD has begun to administer additional doses and will have Moderna and Pfizer vaccine available during our weekday vaccination clinics at the Health Department (8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
WCHD will have Pfizer vaccine available at our Mobile Unit Pop-Up clinics.
