CDC Recommends Second Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine 2024-2025 for Older Adults and Immunocompromised Individuals
CDC Director Mandy Cohen endorsed new guidance from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which recommends that people 65 years of age and older, as well as those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, receive a second dose of the 19-2024 COVID-2025 vaccine six months after the first dose. These updated recommendations also allow flexibility for administration of additional doses (i.e., three or more) for those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, always based on the recommendation of their healthcare provider.
These recommendations underscore the continued importance of COVID-19 vaccination to protect vulnerable populations, especially as the virus continues to circulate and new variants continue to account for the majority of infections and hospitalizations in the United States. COVID-19 vaccination also plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of long COVID-19, a condition that can appear during or after infection and last longer than usual.
CDC continues to recommend that all eligible individuals stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, with special emphasis on older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Both CDC and ACIP will continue to monitor the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines in the future.
CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen said, “This vote allows people to make the best possible choices to stay safe from COVID-19 and protect their loved ones. CDC will continue to educate the public on how and when they should get their updated vaccines to reduce their risk of severe illness and enjoy a better quality of life.”