The objective of the current vaccination guidelines is to decrease the likelihood of hospitalization among those who are most vulnerable to severe illness. Thankfully, vaccinated individuals who contract the virus typically experience only mild symptoms. We continue to be grateful that antiviral medications like Paxlovid and Remdesivir are still producing positive outcomes. You can learn more about the latest guidance by referring to the information below.

For those 65 and older and/or immunocompromised: The FDA and ACIP have signed off on this group to receive an optional second bivalent booster dose if it has been more than four months since your last booster. For the immunocompromised, you may receive an additional bivalent dose if it has been more than two months since your last booster.

Another consideration for this group: If your last infection was in the last six months, you may wait until it’s six months from that infection to receive your next dose. Regardless of when the last booster was given, it’s widely believed that recent infection will be protective for at least four to six months.

For adults and kids: The FDA has not issued a recommendation for a second bivalent booster for this group. For those starting or completing the vaccine series, only bivalent COVID vaccine doses will be used. The prior monovalent vaccines will no longer be in use.

What to expect this fall: In June, the committees will reconvene to discuss fall 2023 boosters and what those may look like depending on the variants circulating.

Weighing your risk: Of course at this point in the pandemic, individual background immunity is incredibly varied with most people having had vaccination and likely prior infection. Decision-making around receiving another vaccination can be complex; if there are any questions or concerns about your individual circumstance, please reach out to Dr. Chung or your physician to set up a time to discuss it.