Days after the FDA approved a third COVID vaccine booster shot for the immunocompromised, the Biden Administration is reportedly developing a plan for a third shot for those who were fully vaccinated, eight months ago or longer. Infectious Disease Specialist for LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Fred Lopez said it remains to be seen who will be prioritized.
“It may very well be nursing home residents, healthcare workers, and emergency workers first,” said Lopez.
The immunocompromised makeup about three percent of the population, individuals who are being treated for cancer and organ transplant patients who take certain medications. Lopez said he anticipates the booster shot rollout will mirror the original rollout of healthcare workers and nursing home residents.
“And then followed by older people and others then after who probably have other chronic medical conditions,” said Lopez.
Lopez said those chronic conditions include heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, thyroid disease, and obesity.
Approximately four months ago Pfizer lobbied for a third booster shot and their efforts were denied by the FDA. Lopez said amidst the fourth surge it appears the mindset amongst government officials has done a 180.
“Soon we may very well be hearing that booster doses will be recommended for other individuals perhaps even everyone eight months after they received their last dose,” said Lopez.
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