COVID Vaccine Boosters – Do I need one?

The short answer is YES.  As of November 29th, 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone ages 18 and older should get a booster dose.  

If you received Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines: You should get a booster at least 6 months after completing your primary COVID-19 vaccination series.
If you received the Janssen (J&J) vaccine: You should get a booster 2 months after completing your primary COVID-19 vaccination.

Which booster should you get?
You may choose which COVID-19 vaccine you receive as a booster shot.  Some people may prefer the vaccine type that they originally received, and others may prefer to get a different booster.  CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and max dosing for booster shots.

For any adults 18 years old or older who completed their primary Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine series at least 6 months ago OR received the Janssen (J&J) vaccine at least 2 months ago, a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine is recommened.

Where can I get a booster?  Although we are not giving COVID19 boosters at Bedford Commons OBGYN, if you are eligible for a booster dose, you can schedule an appointment at any retail pharmacy or can inquire about an additional dose through your primary care provider office.  Find a vaccine location by clicking here: https://www.vaccines.gov/.  If you haven’t gotten a flu shot this year, consider getting the flu vaccination along with your COVID19 booster.  Both can be given on the same day.

What about boosters in pregnancy?  We strongly recommend that our pregnant patients receive the COVID-19 vaccine and also strongly recommend the COVID-19 booster for our pregnant patients who qualify.  For more information about the COVID19 vaccine and pregnancy, click here.