4th Vaccine Dose Recommended For Immunocompromised Washingtonians

OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Health is now recommending a fourth shot of the COVID-19 vaccine to select, immunocompromised patients.

As the DOH explains, that means an immunocompromised Washingtonian could first take the primary, two-dose routine of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, followed by a third full dose, then a booster shot. The third dose can be taken 28 days after receiving the second dose. Booster shots are available five months after completing their primary series.

“COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, but some immunocompromised individuals don’t get strong enough immunity following their initial two-dose series,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, MD, MPH, Chief Science Officer. “Receiving an additional primary dose and a booster dose will help protect those who are more susceptible to the disease. Getting everyone up to date on all vaccine doses they are eligible to receive can also help protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”

However, as mentioned above, these extra shots are not for everyone. The DOH is only recommending them to people who are "moderately "or "severely" immunocompromised, including those who are:

• Receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or blood cancers.
• Recently received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last two years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
• Have moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency, like DiGeorge syndrome or Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome.
• Have an advanced or untreated HIV infection.
• Receiving active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other immune system suppressing drugs.

>> Learn more about the change from the Washington State Department of Health.