CDC Recommends Additional Boosters for Individuals Over 50 and Immunocompromised (SNF/AL)

Following the Food & Drug Administration’s (FDA) regulatory action authorizing a second COVID-19 vaccination booster for certain populations yesterday March 29, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) announced it is updating its recommendations to include the second booster dose. Certain immunocompromised individuals and people over the age of 50 who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago will be eligible for another mRNA booster to increase their protection against severe disease from COVID-19. Separately and in addition, based on newly published data, adults who received a primary vaccine and booster dose of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine at least 4 months ago may now receive a second booster dose using an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.

These updated recommendations acknowledge the increased risk of severe disease in certain populations including those who are elderly or over the age of 50 with multiple underlying conditions, along with the currently available data on vaccine and booster effectiveness.

Under the current “Up to Date” definition, those individuals who meet the criteria to receive a second booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine should make plans to receive another dose when eligible. Members should begin making plans to incorporate eligibility for a second booster dose in their vaccination logs for both residents and staff and reach out to long term care pharmacy partners to set up booster clinics at the appropriate times.