The CDC has approved mix and match booster doses. This means that a person can receive a booster of a COVID-19 vaccine that is different than the COVID-19 vaccine they received for their primary series or initial booster. A person may choose one of the two mRNA vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna) for their second booster. People age 12 to 17 must receive the Pfizer booster as it is the only booster approved for this age group.
Second booster shots using an mRNA vaccine are recommended for those who are:
- Age 12 and older with weakened immune systems and received their initial booster at least 4 months ago
- Age 18 and older and received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for their primary series and received a Johnson & Johnson booster dose at least 4 months ago
- Age 50 and older and received their initial booster dose at least 4 months ago
The CDC, in collaboration with the FDA and other public health partners, will continue to evaluate the need for additional booster doses for all individuals. The recommended vaccination schedule from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is available here.