The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded access and strengthened its guidance on boosters, recommending that everyone aged 18 and older should get a booster shot either at least 6 months after completing their initial Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna two dose vaccine series or 2 months after receiving their initial J&J-Janssen vaccine.

The CDC’s recommendation also allows for “mix and match dosing for booster shots.” Regardless of the COVID-19 vaccine you received initially, you may choose which of the authorized COVID-19 vaccine you receive as a booster.

Throughout the pandemic there have been ongoing clinical studies to monitor the safety and efficacy of the authorize vaccines. The research has shown that all authorized COVID-19 vaccines remain highly effective against the virus. While it is important for fully vaccinated adults to get booster shots, it is also critical that we continue to encourage family and friends who have yet to receive a COVID-19 vaccine to do so as soon as possible.