I’m fully vaccinated – Should I get a COVID-19 booster?

New updates as of Oct 12, 2022

The CDC recommends that all people ages 5 and older receive an updated (bivalent) COVID-19 booster if it's been at least 2 months since their last COVID-19 vaccine dose, including the last dose in a primary series or an original (monovalent) booster.

In Sept 2022, The FDA authorized two updated COVID-19 boosters, which are formulated to better protect against variants. Also referred to as bivalent boosters, these single-dose boosters are now authorized for use by both Moderna (6 years and older) and Pfizer-BioNTech (5 years and older) two months after your primary vaccination series or original booster vaccine. 


The CDC's booster recommendations by age group: 

AGE Booster Type When
6 mos – 4 years A booster shot for this age group has not yet been authorized  N/A
5 years Updated booster (Pfizer-BioNTech) 2 months after primary series
6 – 17 years Updated one-dose Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna bivalent booster 2 months after primary series
18 years and older Updated one-dose Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna bivalent booster 2 months after primary vaccination, vaccination series, or original (monovalent) booster

Does my booster shot need to be the same brand as my original vaccine or primary series?

You can receive any booster dose authorized for your age category.


What if I currently have – or have had – COVID-19?

If you’re experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 before getting a booster. If you test positive for COVID-19, the CDC advises postponing your booster shot until your symptoms have fully cleared.

Once your symptoms have fully resolved, you can schedule your COVID-19 booster if you're eligible.

Find a COVID-19 Booster Shot Near Me

Questions about the COVID-19 booster?

Ask your primary care doctor or talk to a live registered Munson Healthcare nurse at 231-935-0951. This free service is available daily (no insurance required) from 7 am to 11 pm.