How long does protection against COVID last with the vaccine?

Scientists have found in recent studies that the efficacy of the vaccines decreases over time. The CDC is recommending everyone over the age of 12 receive a booster shot to extend their protection against COVID-19.

Is the COVID vaccine safe?

While the COVID-19 vaccine was developed quickly, all of the necessary steps and precautions were taken to ensure its safety. The CDC provides all of the necessary information you may need to know about developing the COVID-19 vaccines.

Who can get a COVID vaccine booster shot?

If you are fully vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine, anyone who is over the age of twelve should receive their booster. Plan to receive your booster at least five months after becoming fully vaccinated. Patients are recommended to receive either the Pfizer or Moderna booster; however, anyone aged 12-17 can only receive the Pfizer booster.

If you are fully vaccinated with Moderna, anyone over the age of 18 can receive their booster at least five months after being fully vaccinated. It's recommended to receive either the Moderna or Pfizer booster shot.

If you are fully vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson's Janssen COVID vaccine, it's recommended to receive your booster after at least two months. You can receive any booster shot, though Pfizer or Moderna are recommended.

What to expect after your vaccine?

Be sure to bring your COVID-19 vaccination card to your booster appointment. You may experience a few side effects after receiving the shot. This can include pain, redness, or swelling on your arm where you received the vaccine.

You may also experience a slight headache, tiredness, muscle pains, or fever as your body builds up immunity to COVID-19. Side effects are typical and normally mild.

Am I still considered "fully vaccinated" if I don't receive a booster shot?

You are still considered fully vaccinated even if you haven't received your booster shot. Everyone is still fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the final dose of your initial vaccine. However, if you want to be optimally protected from COVID-19, it is recommended you receive your booster shot when eligible.

What are the risks of a booster shot?

Potential side effects are the most common risk of receiving your booster shot. More serious side effects are extremely rare. Learn more about potential side effects and the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines from the CDC.

Why do I need a booster shot if I'm already fully vaccinated?

The COVID-19 vaccine is the most effective way to prevent serious side effects of COVID-19, including hospitalization. Public health experts have seen a reduction of efficacy over time from the initial vaccine. Receiving your booster shot while being fully vaccinated helps keep you protected from COVID for longer.