Hi, I’m Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, the health officer for Anne Arundel County. Welcome to our Weekly Health Update. The COVID vaccines, masks, at home testing, and treatment are how you can continue to protect you and your loved ones from COVID. Today, let’s talk about updated guidelines on the Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine.

Should I get the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for my primary series?
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccine are the preferred primary vaccine series for ALL people because they are more effective and have a lower risk of severe side effects. In some limited instances, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may be preferable.

If I got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for my primary series, what should I do for my first booster?
For all people 18 and older, either Pfizer or Moderna are the preferred booster that should be given at least 2 months after the primary dose. In some limited instances, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine may be preferable as the booster.

What should I do if I got the Johnson & Johnson primary dose and booster?
People who are between 18 and 49 who have gotten the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for the primary shot and booster may get a second booster 4 months after the first one with either Pfizer or Moderna. This is the only group in this age group who may get a second booster, even if they are not moderately or severely immunocompromised. If you’re 50 or older, you may get a second booster with either Pfizer or Moderna at least 4 months after the first booster.

For information on where to get the COVID vaccine, check out aacounty.org/covidvax.

Stay safe and be kind to yourself and others. We’ll see you next week.