How Do Booster Shots Help Us? And What Does Pfizer's FDA Approval Mean?

With COVID-19 numbers recently spiking, we see proof that the pandemic is not over yet. A powerful tool against COVID-19 are the vaccines. But what about booster shots? How do they help us? And what does Pfizer’s FDA approval mean? Mona Chitre, PharmD shares the latest.

Mona Chitre, PharmD | Chief Pharmacy Officer

Dr. Chitre leads Excellus BlueCross BlueShield's pharmacy strategy and is responsible for driving affordability, innovation and operational excellence. She is passionate about access to and affordability within the healthcare system in our region. She completed her undergraduate and graduate training at Rutgers University and her post-doctoral primary care residency at the VA Hospital in Buffalo, NY.

Q: Mona, we’re hearing a lot about COVID-19 booster vaccines. What are they and are they necessary?

Booster shots are additional vaccine doses meant to increase the body’s immune response to a threat. To continue the fight against this pandemic, booster shots are important for certain people, such as our most vulnerable populations. Think of booster shots as an added layer of protection. As the COVID-19 virus continues to mutate, new variants emerge, such as the Delta variant. Booster shots are a way for us to help ward against these variants.

Q: Is the COVID-19 booster vaccine the same as the first? Is it safe?

Yes, as of right now the booster vaccines are made up of the same components. However, the companies are testing other formulations of their vaccines that would target specific COVID-19 variants. All COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters, are highly effective and safe.

Q: That’s good to know. Should everyone get a booster shot?

The FDA has recommended Pfizer booster shots for adults over 65, and for those who are at a high risk of exposure to or getting COVID-19. It is recommended that Pfizer booster shots are received at least 6 months after your second dose. Experts are keeping a close eye on data and the best recommendations for all. As of right now, choosing to get fully vaccinated is the safest option for most. The CDC will continue to provide the latest information on booster shots.

Q: What’s the latest on J&J’s second dose?

J&J has announced new data surrounding a second dose of their vaccine. They’ve explained that when a person gets two doses of the J&J vaccine, it boosts efficacy. Per experts, this second shot can be given any time between two months and eight months after your first dose, and the longer you wait, the better. It provides even better protection than the single dose (though the single dose is still excellent at preventing hospitalizations due to COVID-19). J&J plans to submit all of the data available to the FDA for consideration of adding a booster dose or authorizing a two-dose regimen.

Q: We’ve heard that the Pfizer vaccine has received FDA approval. What does that mean?

All available COVID-19 vaccines were authorized by the FDA for emergency use. FDA approval takes more time, and Pfizer’s approval means that the vaccine successfully went through all necessary testing by the FDA to be deemed both safe and effective by their standards and thorough testing. It’s likely that the other vaccines will gain this approval. This is important to me because it shows our scientific research in action. I also hope it encourages people who were initially hesitant about getting the vaccine to feel confident about choosing to get vaccinated.

Q: We hope so too, Mona. What if I received the J&J vaccine first, but now want to switch to Pfizer for my booster shot. Can I switch vaccine “brands”?

It is recommended that each person stay with the same “brand” of vaccine they received the first time. Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines are structured with mRNA, and J&J uses viral vector technology. Since there is not enough data around combining vaccines, it is best to stay consistent with your first (and second if applicable) dose.

Need a COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment?

Check availability and schedule an appointment at a New York State-run vaccination site. Vaccines are also available at pharmacies, hospitals and through local health departments - please contact the provider of your choice to schedule an appointment.

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We're continuing to monitor COVID-19 and vaccine developments, and will keep you updated on what you need to know.

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