CDC recommending fourth coronavirus vaccine for some with specific conditions

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently announced people with certain conditions that make them more vulnerable to COVID-19 are eligible for a fourth shot. 

In August, the CDC authorized a third dose of the mRNA vaccines for anyone who is immunocompromised. Now, health authorities say, the third shot is no longer considered a booster. For those with weakened immune systems, a full vaccination is considered a three-part series — or three shots — and the fourth vaccine will be a booster. 

“As we’ve kind of been in the midst of these booster conversations, awaiting on all of these decisions… The first update that was provided was a third dose of a primary series for immunocompromised individuals,” Dr. Christopher Doehring, vice president of medical affairs at Franciscan Health, told News 8. “”And now the recommendation is once someone is six months past their third dose, there is a booster recommendation.”

Doehring says while the CDC as well as the Food and Drug Administration have endorsed the booster, six months must pass before a person who qualifies will be able to get that fourth dose. 

Researchers at John Hopkins found the immunocompromised make up 44% of breakthrough cases and are more likely to transmit the virus. This is just another reason the 4th shot is necessary to maintain immunity against COVID-19.