Pouch US Director: "Booster Shots Recommended with the Original Vaccine Received"

Anthony Fauci, Director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
[Photo by AFP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Byunghee Park] Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), stated that while it is possible to receive a booster shot of a COVID-19 vaccine different from the original vaccine, it is recommended to get the same type if possible.

In an interview with CNN on the 22nd (local time), he said, "Usually, it is recommended to receive a booster shot of the same type as the initial vaccine." However, he added, "Due to various circumstances or personal choice, it is also acceptable to receive a different vaccine."

Earlier, on the 21st, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved booster shots for Moderna and Janssen vaccine recipients, stating that it is permissible to receive a booster shot different from the original vaccine.

Dr. Fauci’s remarks somewhat contrast with the recommendations from the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

While the FDA and CDC recommend booster shots, they have not specified which combination is best. Additionally, their guidance allows Janssen single-dose recipients to receive Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. Recent studies have reported that Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have better preventive effects.

Dr. Fauci said, "It is possible to mix vaccines, but generally, it is common sense to receive the same vaccine as originally administered."

Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General and head of the Department of Health and Human Services’ public health service, agreed with this view.

In an interview with CNBC, Surgeon General Murthy said, "If you received Pfizer or Moderna and had no issues, it would be reasonable to choose the same vaccine for your booster shot." He added, "Research shows that receiving any of Pfizer, Moderna, or Janssen as a booster can enhance protection against the virus."