Get the latest facts about COVID-19 booster shots

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending people ages 18 and older get a booster shot of COVID-19 vaccine either two (Johnson & Johnson) or six (Moderna and Pfizer) months after their initial vaccinations — especially now that the omicron variant of the virus has emerged.

Here, experts from Pitt’s COVID-19 Medical Response Office answer your frequently asked questions to help students, faculty and staff understand more about boosters and where to find them.

What’s a vaccine booster and how does it work?

COVID-19 booster shots are the same formulation as the current COVID-19 vaccines available from Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson — meaning you get the same vaccine in the same amount. The Moderna booster is the same formulation — the same vaccine — but given at half the dose of the first two doses. Boosters enhance the body’s immune response begun by the initial vaccination.

Why are boosters important?

Although COVID-19 vaccination remains effective in preventing severe disease, recent data suggest vaccinations can become less effective at preventing illness with symptoms over time for some people, especially those 65 and older.

Booster shots have demonstrated the ability to safely increase protection against infection and severe outcomes, including with the delta variant, making them an important tool to strengthen our defenses against COVID-19 as we enter the winter holidays.

When should I get a booster?

Six months after your second dose of Pfizer or Moderna or two months after your first dose of Johnson & Johnson. It’s best to get boosted as close as possible to the date you become eligible. You cannot get boosted earlier.

Will boosters protect me against the omicron variant?

Much remains to be known about this variant, including whether it is more transmissible, or if it causes more severe symptoms. Experts anticipate current vaccines will maintain a degree of efficacy against the mutation, and vaccine manufacturers can rapidly develop omicron-specific mRNA vaccines should the need arise.

Pitt virologists will be monitoring for the presence of the omicron variant in Pittsburgh, which we expect will eventually happen. As always: If you feel sick, please get tested promptly. Increased testing will help us to limit COVID-19 spread in general.

Do I have to get the same vaccine I got before?

You have the option to either get the same vaccine as your primary dose(s) or get a different vaccine. Consider the benefits and risks of each product and consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you have further questions.

Where can I get my booster shot?

The Pitt CoVax Vaccination Center does take walk-ins, but due to demand, please be prepared for longer wait times and know that there are other resources and locations to get a shot. The University is hosting pop-up clinics at the Petersen Events Center on Dec. 16 and Jan. 12 to accommodate demand.

Boosters are also widely available at local pharmacies, physician offices and UPMC South Side, in addition to Pitt CoVax Center. Check the Allegheny County Health Department vaccine provider map for information on vaccine availability and providers.

Do I have to show my vaccine card to get a booster? What if I lost it?

Yes, bring your vaccine card with you to get your booster shot. If you lost the card and don’t have a photograph of it, contact the provider where you got your vaccine to access the record directly. If you cannot reach the provider — or to update records concerning vaccines you received outside the United States — contact your state health department’s immunization information system.

Will there be side effects from the booster?

So far, reactions reported after the booster shot are similar to those seen after the primary series of vaccines — localized soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site; fatigue; headache; muscle pain; chills; fever or nausea. These are signs that your body is building immunity and they should go away within a few days. Some people have no side effects. Allergic reactions are rare.

Is there anything I can do to minimize side effects after the shot?

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin or antihistamines for any pain or discomfort. Taking such medicine as a preventive prior to getting a booster shot is not recommended. Remember to stay hydrated. Exercise and cool damp cloths can help with arm soreness.

Do I still need to mask if I get a booster shot?

To maximize protection and prevent possibly spreading COVID-19 to others, continue wearing a mask indoors and outdoors in crowded settings or when in close contact with people who may not be vaccinated, especially if you are in an area of substantial or high transmission.

Am I still considered fully vaccinated if I don’t get a booster shot?

Yes. Everyone is still considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-shot series of Pfizer or Moderna, or two weeks after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

As always, the CDC strongly encourages unvaccinated adults to get vaccinated as soon as possible and to vaccinate their children and teens because strong immunity will likely prevent serious illness and mitigate additional community spread.

This story has been updated.