NDDoH releases statement on FDA authorization of second booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine

Wednesday, March 30, 2022 - 11:00 am

This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized second booster doses of Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for individuals ages 50 & older, and those ages 12 and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised (weakened immune system).

In a statement released Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorsed FDA’s authorization of an additional booster. CDC also stated that adults who received a primary vaccine and booster dose of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine at least four months ago may now receive an additional booster dose using Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

According to the FDA, current evidence suggests some waning of protection over time against serious outcomes from COVID-19 in older and immunocompromised individuals. Individuals may receive a second booster dose if it has been at least four months since their first booster dose. Immunocompromised individuals may receive a total of five doses, three in the primary series and two booster doses.

“COVID-19 vaccines continue to be safe and are effective at preventing hospitalization and death. Real-world data from Israel shows that an additional booster dose is safe and life-saving. Mortality due to the Omicron variant in this data set was significantly lower—a 78% reduction—in those ages 60 and older in Israel who received an additional booster dose,” said NDDoH Immunization Director Molly Howell.

“People need to consider their age and health status when choosing whether or not to receive an additional booster dose. North Dakotans are encouraged to have a conversation with a trusted healthcare provider to make sure they are making the best decision for themselves.”

Additional booster doses may not be available to the public until next week (April 4). As a reminder, people may be vaccinated against other diseases (such as influenza or shingles) at the same time as receiving a COVID-19 booster. People who have had COVID-19 in the past 90 days may consider delaying an additional booster dose.

Currently in North Dakota, only 54% (193,839) of eligible adults have received their first booster dose.

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