Member: I got my initial COVID-19 vaccine(s) and booster, but I’ve had a hard time following more recent recommendations. Do I need another booster? And can I get my flu shot at the same time? —Scott, Apple Valley
Dr. Fendrich: Hi, Scott. I’m glad to hear that you’ve received your initial COVID-19 vaccines and your booster. That’s a great way to protect yourself against serious illness or hospitalization from COVID-19. Individuals over the age of 50 can be more prone to severe outcomes related to COVID-19, which is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a second booster dose.
Your second booster dose should be either of the currently available mRNA vaccines — Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna — even if you initially received the Johnson and Johnson Janssen vaccine. It should
also be at least four months after you’ve received your first booster. Companies are currently working on new formulations of the vaccine to address the changing variants of the virus and an additional booster may be recommended.
Two shots, one visit
The flu shot is another excellent defense against illness this fall and winter. The CDC recommends the annual flu shot for almost everyone over six months old. Flu activity changes year to year, and the flu vaccine is reviewed and updated as needed to help combat the viruses going around. This makes it especially important to stay up to date with your yearly flu shot.
According to the CDC, it’s safe to get your flu vaccine at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine or booster shot. In fact, getting them at the same time saves you a trip and makes it easy to schedule. Talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you have, and get them both scheduled as soon as you can.