Updated: Monday Sept. 19, 2022
Q: What are the new COVID Boosters?
A: On August 31, 2022, two bivalent boosters were approved. Moderna bivalent booster is authorized for people 18 years and older. Pfizer bivalent booster is authorized for use in people ages 12 years and older.
Q: What happened to the “old” boosters?
A: The “old” boosters known as monovalent COVID1-19 vaccines are no longer authorized as a booster dose. Monovalent vaccines are still given as primary series vaccination.
Q: When am I eligible to receive a bivalent vaccine booster?
A: The bivalent vaccines are authorized as a single booster dose given at least 2 months after either:
- Completion of primary vaccination OR
- Receipt of the most recent booster dose with any approved monovalent COVID-19 vaccine.
Q: What about children?
A: At this time there are no changes to schedules for children ages 6 months through 11 years. Children ages 12 years and older are eligible for the bivalent booster dose.
- Ages 6 months to 4 years can receive the Pfizer monovalent primary series.
- Ages 5 through 11 years can receive the Pfizer monovalent primary series + 1 monovalent booster dose.
- Ages 12 years and older can receive the Pfizer primary series + 1 bivalent booster dose.
Q: What is meant by the Fall Booster “Reset?”
A: The COVID vaccination recommendations have become simplified. Instead of counting how many doses you have received, everyone should have 1 bivalent booster when eligible. See chart below:
| Vaccination history | → | Next dose |
| Primary series | At least 2 months → | 1 bivalent booster dose |
| Primary series + 1 booster | At least 2 months → | 1 bivalent booster dose |
| Primary series + 2 booster | At least 2 months → | 1 bivalent booster dose |
Q: I recently had COVID. When should I receive the bivalent booster dose?
A: People who have recently had COVID may consider delaying any COVID-19 vaccination including bivalent booster vaccination by 3 months from symptom onset or positive test.
Q: What are the recommendations for bivalent boosters for people who are immunocompromised?
A: Bivalent booster vaccination is recommended for those who are moderately to severely immunocompromised. Consult your healthcare provider for timing of vaccination.
Q: Can I receive a flu shot and COVID bivalent booster at the same time?
A: Yes! Both vaccines can be given without regard to timing.