Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recommended that people at higher risk of severe COVID-19 complications, especially those aged 65 and older, should receive a booster shot this spring. This advice aims to provide the best possible protection against a potential rise in cases during the summer, continuing the pattern of both winter and summer waves observed over the past four years.

CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Recommendations

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) highlighted the importance of administering another round of vaccines in the coming months. This approach differs from the seasonal flu vaccination strategy due to the year-round peaks of COVID-19 observed in January and August. The recommendation for spring boosters for older adults will take effect upon approval by CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen, which is typically expected following the committee’s advice.

Vaccination Timing and Eligibility

For healthy older adults, the recommended additional dose should follow at least four months after their previous dose or three months post a COVID-19 infection. Those with compromised immune systems may require further doses. The emphasis on vaccination importance reflects the continuous effort to protect vulnerable age groups from COVID-19.

Spring Booster Vaccine Composition

The proposed spring booster is the same formulation approved last fall, designed to target the XBB.1.5 subvariant. It remains effective against the JN.1 subvariant, currently responsible for the majority of COVID-19 cases in the United States. Recent data presented by the advisory committee indicates that the booster significantly reduces hospitalization risks in people 65 and older by up to 54%.

Impact on COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Deaths

Despite a peak in COVID-19 hospitalizations in early January, numbers have been declining. However, hospital admissions have never fallen below 6,000 a week over the last year, predominantly among older adults. The number of COVID-19 deaths has also decreased, yet the CDC reported around 500 deaths a week at last summer’s lowest point, underscoring the ongoing risk the virus poses.