CDC authorizes “mix and match” COVID-19 boosters
STATEWIDE (October 21, 2021): Today, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officially recommended Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccine booster doses for people at higher risk for COVID-19.
The updated CDC guidance recommends Moderna booster doses for people 65 years and older, residents in long-term care settings, people aged 18–64 years with underlying medical conditions, and people aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of where they work or live. Booster doses are also recommended for anyone age 18 and older who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
People who originally received the Moderna vaccine may get a booster dose approximately six months or more after they received their second dose of vaccine. People who originally received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may get a booster dose approximately two months or more after their single dose.
CDC also authorized a “mix and match” approach to booster doses. People may get a different type of vaccine for their booster than their original series. For example, if you received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine for your first dose, you may choose to get a booster dose of Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson.
This announcement allows Moderna or Johnson & Johnson boosters to be given immediately to anyone eligible. The CDC approved booster doses for people who completed a Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination series late last month.
“For many Coloradans, a booster dose is an important part of maintaining the greatest protection against COVID-19,” said Dr. Eric France, Chief Medical Officer. “People who are eligible should get their booster dose as soon as possible, especially as we approach the holidays and look forward to safely celebrating with our families and friends.”
The state has ample inventory to offer booster doses to those who are eligible while continuing to provide first and second doses to people completing their initial vaccine series. Eligible Coloradans can receive a free COVID-19 vaccine or booster at any of the more than 1,700 vaccine providers across the state or at one of the state’s mobile vaccination clinics. No insurance, identification, proof of residency, or proof of medical history is required.
Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.
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