The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has recently recommended that moderately to severely compromised persons who have already received their COVID-19 vaccination get an additional dose of their respective vaccine. This is meant to be a precautionary measure to protect people who are immunocompromised and may not be able to build up the same level of immunity to their initial vaccine doses as non-immunocompromised persons will. It’s important to emphasize that this recommendation does not apply to everyone who has received a COVID-19 vaccination.
People who meet the guidelines for an additional vaccine dose include:
- People currently undergoing cancer treatments including chemotherapy and radiation therapy
- Anyone who is currently receiving immunosuppressive medication following an organ transplant or stem cell transplant
- Those with a primary immunodeficiency such as DiGeorge syndrome or Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome
- People with advanced or untreated HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
- Anyone who is currently prescribed to any medication that may suppress the immune response, including high-dose steroids
We understand that there is much to know and understand with regards to COVID-19 vaccinations. That’s why we are always happy to address any questions or concerns that our patients may have. If you think you may qualify for an additional dose based on the above guidelines, please contact Family Practice Center to schedule a vaccine appointment. You can also follow along with us on Facebook for additional health tips, news, and so much more.