FDA approves mixing COVID-19 vaccines for boosters

HOUSTON - The FDA has now OK’d mixing COVID-19 vaccines for those that are looking to get that additional booster shot.

Dr. Peter Hotez, with Baylor College of Medicine, tells FOX 26, a third dose is needed for those who received the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine, and recommends sticking with the same vaccine. 

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"There is a lot of data coming out of Israel on the safety and effectiveness of a third dose, and second, as a general rule, I think It’s better if you can stick with the same vaccine," said Hotez. "I don’t see any particular benefit of switching to another vaccine.

However, Dr. Hotez tells us for those who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, there is an at risk population for the booster shot.

"One of the rare, rare complications of the J&J vaccine is called cerebral thrombosis, which is a very serious condition," said Hotez. "Who is at risk, pregnant woman along with women on birth control pills."

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Hotez recommends for those in that at risk category, the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for a booster may be a better choice. 

There is also movement with the White House as they plan to roll out COVID-19 vaccines for children ages five through 11. Federal regulators will be meeting over the next few weeks for final approval.

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"For the younger kids, the amount of MRNA in the Pfizer vaccine is about a third as much," said Hotez. "Kids tend to have a stronger immune response, so they don't need as much MRNA."

Dr. Hotez also suspects children will need a booster as well.

"I would imagine it’s going to go by the same playbook, two doses a few weeks apart, followed by a booster," said Hotez.