On October 21, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded eligibility for COVID-19 Booster Shots. CDC issued the following recommendations regarding these vaccines under the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorization (EUA):

Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Dose
For individuals who received a primary series of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster dose 6 months or more after completion of the initial series:

• 65 years and older
• Age 18+ years who live in long-term care settings
• Age 18+ years who have underlying medical conditions
• Age 18+ years who work or live in high-risk settings

Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Dose

For individuals 18+ years who received a single dose of the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine, a booster dose is now recommended 2 months or more after their initial dose.

Heterologous (or “Mix and Match”) Booster Doses  
Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some individuals may prefer the vaccine type that they originally received, and others may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots.

See the infographic below for a summary of vaccine timing and utilization.