City of Fairfax issued the following announcement on Feb. 22
On Feb. 17, the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) updated its vaccine recommendations on Feb. 17 for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised and have completed a three-dose primary series of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna). It is now recommended that they receive an mRNA booster dose (fourth dose) at least three months (instead of five months) after the last primary dose.
This recommendation applies to immunocompromised individuals 12 years or older. Children ages 5 through 11 years who are immunocompromised should receive a primary series of three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. A booster dose is not recommended at this time.
Immunocompromised people who are 18 and older and have received a single Johnson & Johnson shot should receive two follow-up doses: a second of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna), and an mRNA vaccine booster dose following at least two months after the second shot – for a total of three doses.
An estimated seven million Americans have weakened immune systems, are immunocompromised or take immune system suppressive medications to treat cancers, autoimmune disorders, or other conditions. People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of severe COVID 19 illness and death. They can become sicker than other population groups and their illnesses can last longer.
Booster dose recommendations have not changed for individuals who are not immunocompromised. At this time, only one booster dose is recommended for those 12 years and older. Individuals who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster doses, continue to have strong protection against severe illness, including protection against the Omicron variant.
While COVID-19 cases are declining, the Fairfax Health District and the Northern Virginia region continue to experience high levels of transmission. Individuals, organizations and the community are urged to continue to use layered mitigation strategies to achieve the most protection, including:
- Wearing a well-fitting mask indoors
- Staying up to date on vaccinations
- Maintaining 6-foot distancing
- Avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces
- Washing hands frequently
- Staying home when sick.
Keeping up good prevention practices will help protect yourself and others. For more information, visit the Fairfax Health District COVID-19 webpage.
Original source can be found here.
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