FOLLOWING CDC GUIDANCE, MCPH BEGINS ADMINISTERING 3RD DOSE OF COVID-19 VACCINE TO IMMUNOCOMPROMISED INDIVIDUALS
People who have a moderately to severely compromised immune system may benefit from an additional dose of vaccine.
After approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Mesa County Public Health (MCPH) will administer third/booster doses of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to immunocompromised individuals beginning Wednesday, August 18.
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends people whose immune systems are moderately to severely compromised receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least four weeks (28 days) after their second dose.
Studies show that some people who are immunocompromised don’t build adequate levels of protection after receiving two doses of mRNA vaccines. People who are recommended to receive an additional dose include people who have:
- Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood.
- Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
- Received a stem cell transplant within the last two years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
- Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).
- Advanced or untreated HIV infection.
- Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response.
Additional doses are free. No ID, insurance, or proof of medical history is required to receive an additional dose. Residents may self-report their condition and may be asked to sign an attestation. Please note these boosters are only for Pfizer and Moderna; Johnson & Johnson is not included.
COVID-19 vaccines are available by appointment or walk-in at the community vaccination site located at 510 29 ½ Road. Clinic hours are Wednesday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.