Credit CDC/ACIP
#16,487
For the second time this week (see Tuesday's CDC Recommends Pfizer Booster After 5 Months, Additional Dose For Certain Immunocompromised Children) has endorsed the expansion of COVID Booster shots, this time agreeing to the recommendation from ACIP (Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices) on booster shots for adolescents aged 12 to 17.
Despite a reduced ability to prevent breakthrough infections - particularly against Omicron - we continue to see evidence that vaccination (and booster shots) provide much better protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
The level of protection from vaccination does wane over time, making appropriate booster shots - along with wearing face masks and avoiding crowds - your best tactic to help avoid infection this winter. This statement from the CDC.
CDC Expands Booster Shot Eligibility and Strengthens Recommendations for 12-17 Year Olds
Media Statement
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, January 5, 2022
Contact: Media Relations
(404) 639-3286
Today, CDC is endorsing the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation to expand eligibility of booster doses to those 12 to 15 years old. CDC now recommends that adolescents age 12 to 17 years old should receive a booster shot 5 months after their initial Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination series.
Data show that COVID-19 boosters help broaden and strengthen protection against Omicron and other SARS-CoV-2 variants. ACIP reviewed the available safety data following the administration of over 25 million vaccine doses in adolescents; COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.
At this time, only the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorized and recommended for adolescents aged 12-17.
The following is attributable to CDC Director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky
“It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 infection and the complications of severe disease. Today, I endorsed ACIP’s vote to expand eligibility and strengthen our recommendations for booster doses. We now recommend that all adolescents aged 12-17 years should receive a booster shot 5 months after their primary series. This booster dose will provide optimized protection against COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. I encourage all parents to keep their children up to date with CDC’s COVID-19 vaccine recommendations.”
For those who would like to view the presentations at yesterday's ACIP meeting, you'll find the links below.
Note: These files are not yet 508
Slides will be added as they become available.January 5, 2022
Welcome & Introductions
Introduction
Dr. G LeeDr. M WhartonCoronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Vaccines
Dr. M Daley
Dr. J Su
Dr. A Hause
Dr. N Klein
Dr. E Twentyman
Dr. S Oliver
