May 16, 2022
The COVID-19 vaccines are very good at preventing severe disease, but protection can lessen over time.
A booster shot is an additional shot recommended to give longer lasting protection. Many vaccines need boosters after a period of time.
Additional doses of vaccine are recommended for people who have certain serious medical conditions and need extra doses to get a good immune response.
Who should get a COVID-19 booster shot?
Everyone age 12 and older, including people who are immunocompromised and received a third dose of Pfizer or Moderna, should get a booster dose. You are eligible for a booster shot once it has been:
- At least 5 months after receiving the second dose of Pfizer or Moderna
- At least 3 months after receiving the third dose of Pfizer or Moderna if you are immunocompromised
- At least 2 months after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Booster doses for people age 11 and under are not available at this time.
Who should get an additional dose?
For people who are age 5 and up and who are immunocompromised, an additional dose is recommended at least 28 days after the initial series (two doses of Pfizer or Moderna, one dose of Johnson & Johnson). Read more about additional doses for immunocompromised people.
Which brand should I get?
- 12-17 year olds must get Pfizer.
- Ages 18 and up can get any brand, based on availability, however mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are now recommended for most individuals. Johnson & Johnson is an acceptable alternative for individuals who cannot receive an mRNA vaccine, who do not have access to mRNA vaccine, or who otherwise prefer to receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
- All are effective. Find out more.
Where can I get a booster or additional dose?
To get a booster shot:
- Contact your healthcare provider
- Ask your local pharmacy
- Call 2-1-1
- Visit GetVaccinated.Oregon.gov.
- Visit a weekly clinic
