The third vaccine dose has been a highly searched keyword recently. Today, let’s join us in exploring the differences between booster and reminder shots in the following article.
1 What’s the Difference Between a Booster and a Reminder Shot?
What is a Booster Shot?
Information on booster shots
A booster shot is an additional dose of the vaccine administered to individuals who have already received the recommended number of vaccine doses (either one or two doses, depending on the vaccine type) to enhance their protection against the virus.
Eligibility for Booster Shots:
- Individuals must be 18 years of age or older
- Have completed the primary series or received a booster dose
- At least 3 months have passed since the last dose of the primary series
- Individuals with moderately to severely compromised immune systems or those undergoing immunosuppressive treatment
- Additionally, individuals who have received the Sinopharm or Sputnik V vaccines are advised to get a booster shot.
Timing of Booster Shot: Administer a booster shot 28 to 90 days after the last dose of the primary series.
Notably, when a booster shot is indicated and completed, it is considered as having completed the primary series.
What is a Reminder Shot?
Information on reminder shots
A reminder shot is an additional dose of the vaccine for individuals aged 18 and above who have received the primary series or booster doses.
The purpose of the reminder shot is to ensure coverage for individuals with underlying medical conditions, those requiring long-term care in healthcare facilities, individuals aged 50 and above, and those directly caring for or treating COVID-19 patients.
Timing of Reminder Shot: Administer a reminder shot at least 90 days after the last dose of the primary series.
2 Which Vaccine Type Should Be Used?
Booster Shot Vaccine Type
Same vaccine type as the primary series will be used for booster shots
The booster shot will be of the same vaccine type as the primary series or an mRNA vaccine.
Reminder Shot Vaccine Type
Depends on the vaccine type previously administered
- If you received the same vaccine type for the primary series, the reminder shot will be of the same type or an mRNA vaccine.
- If you received different vaccine types for the primary series, the reminder shot will be an mRNA vaccine.
- If you received Sinopharm for the primary series or booster, the reminder shot will be of the same type, an mRNA vaccine, or a viral vector vaccine (AstraZeneca).
3 Who Should Not Get Booster or Reminder Shots?
Contraindications for booster and reminder shots
The following are some contraindications for booster and reminder shots:
- Individuals with a history of adverse reactions to the vaccine in previous doses.
- Individuals with specific medical conditions or contraindications as stated by the vaccine manufacturer.
4 Who Should Postpone Booster or Reminder Shots?
Pregnant women in their first trimester can postpone booster and reminder shots
The following are some situations where individuals should postpone booster and reminder shots:
- Individuals with acute illnesses.
- Pregnant women in their first trimester.
For further reference:
We have provided you with comprehensive information about the third dose, including the distinctions between booster and reminder shots. We hope you find this information helpful!
