There has been plenty of talk in the news and on other platforms regarding the recommendation for a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Sometimes called a second booster, it’s easy to see why this has created confusion and speculation over whether or not people should talk to their doctors, seek advice from others or just try to get another dose wherever they can. 

New FDA & CDC Guideline Changes

On March 29, 2022, the FDA issued emergency use authorizations for fourth doses of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for people ages 50 and older, or people with immunocompromised conditions, who received their first booster four months ago or longer. The CDC also updated its guidance to include a second booster/fourth dose with the same recommendations. Also, people ages 18–49 years who are not moderately or severely immunocompromised and who received Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine as both their primary series dose and booster dose may receive a second booster dose using an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least 4 months after the first Janssen booster dose.

So What Does This Mean For You?

To simplify: you can get a 4th dose if you:

• • • Are an adult aged 50 years and older and received your first booster at least 4 months ago.
    • Are age 12 or older with a moderately or severely immunocompromised condition and received your first booster at least 4 months ago.
    • Are aged 18-49 years and received Johnson & Johnson/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for your first shot or booster at least 4 months ago.

This second booster authorization relates only to Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. The recommendation of a single booster for other age groups and those without any immunocompromised has not changed. 

To Learn More

Of course, if you have any questions or concerns regarding eligibility for a 4th dose, we strongly encourage you to discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Learn more on the CHC COVID-19 Patient Resource page.