The 3rd COVID-19 Vaccine Dose: What to Know

This blog contains information specifically on those who are moderate to severely immune-compromised. If this does not apply to you, and you are looking for information about the COVID-19 Booster, visit this blog post.

The CDC has announced the third shot of COVID-19 vaccines is now available for moderate to severely immune-compromised individuals. As new updates continue to happen and with so much information about the vaccine and COVID-19, we want to make sure you're informed.

Here's what to know about the 3rd dose.

Who Is 3rd Dose Is Available To?

Currently, the CDC recommends individuals who are moderate to severely immune-compromised get a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

About 3% of the adult population are moderate to severely immune-compromised individuals and are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 because they are more at risk of serious, prolonged illness. The CDC now recommends an additional dose of the mRNA vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna) at least 28 days after the initial 2 doses for these individuals.

What Does Moderate to Severe Immune-Compromised Mean?

As mentioned above, individuals who are moderate to severely immune-compromised are more vulnerable to COVID-19 because of pre-existing conditions. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection. Read more about HIV and COVID-19 vaccines here.
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response

The CDC also recommends that the additional dose should be from the same manufacturer as the initial 2 doses (i.e. get the Pfizer additional dose if you have received the initial 2 doses of the Pfizer vaccine).

Schedule Your 3rd Dose at Apicha CHC

If you meet the criteria above and completed the Moderna vaccine series at least 28 days ago, call Apicha CHC to schedule your third Moderna dose at: 212-334-6029.

After you are scheduled for the vaccine, you will be asked to self-attest on the New York State COVID Vaccine Form https://forms.ny.gov/s3/vaccine. Proof of self-attestation will be required at the time of the vaccine appointment.

You will not be asked for any additional information about your qualifying medical condition.

Have Questions About the Moderna Vaccine?

We understand you may have questions or concerns about getting vaccinated. At Apicha CHC, we offer the Moderna vaccine. If you'd like to learn more about the Moderna vaccine, click here.