Chesco Health Department Awaits FDA's OK, Readies For 3rd Doses

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — A plan to get third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine into the arms of Chester County's vaccinated population is in place, but on hold, until third doses for all are federally approved, Chesco's Health Department said on Friday.

On Wednesday, the FDA and the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) approved an update to the Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. The update allowed people with weakened immune systems who already got two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines to get a third dose.

Chester County's Health Department explained, "These people had weak responses to the original doses of the vaccine. The update follows research showing people with weakened immune systems likely never reached full protection against COVID-19. This small, vulnerable group may benefit from an extra dose."

For the general population, third doses are not included in the vaccine update. The FDA is still reviewing if an extra dose may be needed in the future, the Health Department stated.

"The COVID-19 vaccines are very good at preventing serious illness, hospitalizations, and death. People who are fully vaccinated and do not have a weakened immune system are well protected and don’t need an additional dose at this time," the Health Department said.

The update does not include additional doses for those who've had the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The Health Department said the FDA and CDC are actively working on updating guidance for people who received Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Following Wednesday's announcement from the federal agency about COVID-19 booster vaccines — which are not exactly the same thing as a third dose — the Health Department said it is incorporating this into its vaccine clinic plans and is prepared to adjust clinic operations once final approval from the FDA and CDC is received.

For more details about third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, go here.

"As we learn more about how vaccines perform over time and against new variants, it is important to remember that getting vaccinated against COVID-19 NOW can keep you from the worst outcomes — including serious symptoms, hospitalization, and death," Health Department officials told County residents, adding, "If you have not yet been vaccinated, we strongly encourage you to make an appointment."

Appointments can be made from the Chester County Health Department webpage.

Chester County's Health Department said it is working with local healthcare providers and has increased the number of appointments at the Government Services Center clinic. It is supporting local community partners who work with people with weakened immune systems.

Chester County Health Department also advises people with weakened immune systems, including those who received an extra vaccine dose, to continue to wear a mask, to socially distance 6 feet from those not part of their own household, and to avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces until advised otherwise by their healthcare provider.

Read the Chester County Health Department's COVID-19 Third Dose FAQs here.

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