FDA Approves Moderna and J&J Booster Shots, Allows Mixing and Matching for Optimal COVID-19 Protection

by Peter June 19, 2022

written by Peter June 19, 2022

FDA Approves Booster Shots for Moderna and J&J Vaccines, Allows Mixing and Matching

What Vaccines Are Approved for Booster Shots?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has endorsed booster shots of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccines. This decision expands booster options to all three approved vaccines in the United States: Moderna, J&J, and Pfizer-BioNTech.

Who Is Eligible for a Booster Shot?

Higher-risk Americans who received Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines are eligible for a booster shot six months after their initial round of inoculations. This group includes:

Individuals over 65 years of age
Those with underlying medical conditions
Individuals who live or work in high-risk settings, such as first responders, educators, and public transit workers

For the roughly 15 million Americans who got the J&J COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are recommended for those 18 and older who were vaccinated at least two months ago.

Mix-and-Match Strategy for Boosters

The FDA has formally allowed “mixing and matching” of boosters. This means that individuals who received the Moderna or J&J vaccine can opt for a different brand than their initial dose.

Benefits of Booster Shots

The availability of authorized boosters is important for continued protection against COVID-19 disease. Data suggest waning immunity in some populations, and boosters could provide added immunity for millions of Americans.

The advisory committee also noted early evidence suggesting that J&J vaccine recipients can more effectively boost antibody levels by switching to one of the two mRNA vaccines from Moderna or Pfizer.

Risks of Booster Shots

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are generally safe, but there is a rare risk of heart inflammation (myocarditis) in young adult men. The J&J vaccine carries a small risk of blood clots in young women.

Some CDC scientists noted that the minor risk of these complications may outweigh the benefit of getting a booster for those that are already fully vaccinated.

Fully Vaccinated Americans Are Still Protected

Despite the recent announcement, fully vaccinated Americans are still well-protected against the worst effects of COVID-19. Coronavirus vaccines are all highly effective in reducing the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death, even in the midst of the widely circulating Delta variant.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.