Booster Vaccine Dose Available To Immunocompromised In Virginia

VIRGINIA — There hasn't been a consensus on a need for booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine for the general population, but it is now recommended for people with significantly compromised immune systems. The Virginia Department of Health said third doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine are available to moderately and severely immunocompromised people starting as soon as Aug. 14.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated vaccine guidelines to recommend a third dose of the mRNA vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer) for people with significantly compromised immune systems. VDH defines immunocompromised persons as "those whose immune mechanisms are deficient because of certain immunologic disorders or immunosuppressive therapy."

These people represent about 3 percent of the U.S. population. Of the 4,144,080 Virginians who have two doses of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine as of Friday, about 124,322 (3 percent) would be eligible, according to VDH.

The recommendation is based on studies showing immunocompromised people have a weak response to the standard vaccine dosage. A third dose is believed to boost immunity and protect them from COVID-19 complications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration evaluated those studies and made the recommendation to the CDC on Thursday. The FDA has not recommended additional doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

"This is important additional protection for people who have impaired immune systems," Virginia's State Health Commissioner stated. "As COVID-19 cases rise across Virginia and the country, everyone who is eligible should get appropriately vaccinated as soon as they can."

VDH says the third dose for eligible people should be from the same manufacturer if possible, but it's not required. Immunocompromised people should wait at least 28 days after their second dose before receiving a third dose.

VDH cautions even a third dose may not provide strong protection against COVID-19 for people with a significantly compromised immune system.

"Additional COVID-19 precautions remain important for this population," VDH stated. "These include wearing a mask, maintaining physical distance from others outside of the home, and avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces until advised otherwise by their healthcare provider."

VDH recommends immunocompromised people talk about monoclonal antibody treatment options with their healthcare provider in the case of COVID-19 infection or exposure. Those in the same household or close contacts are urged to get vaccinated to help protect immunocompromised people.

The FDA has not recommended a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for the general public.

Residents may visit vaccinate.virginia.gov to find COVID-19 vaccines near them.