Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have each created an updated booster dose formula designed to protect against original strains of the virus, as well as Omicron variants that cause most new infections.
Updated boosters of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna contain two formulas that boost immunity against the original coronavirus strain and also protect against the newer Omicron variants.
The latest CDC recommendations on booster doses help to ensure more people across the U.S. are better protected against COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and boosted if eligible. Vaccination and boosting are particularly important for individuals more at risk for severe COVID-19, such as older people and those with underlying medical conditions.
For children age 6 months to 4 years who get the Pfizer primary series, the updated bivalent vaccine will be used as the third dose in the series, rather than as a separate booster. Children in this age group who previously received 3 monovalent Pfizer primary series doses are eligible to receive 1 bivalent Pfizer booster dose at least 2 months after completion of the monovalent primary series. The recommended vaccination schedule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including dosage, is available here.