Third vaccine doses available for immunocompromised people

In weeks, we could find out when more Americans will be able to get another COVID-19 booster, starting with health care workers and those in nursing homes. Right now, only people with weakened immune systems are eligible for the third shot. You can currently book appointments online with Publix, CVS and Walgreens.

Brent Williamson, who has multiple sclerosis, says he’s basically hiding out from this new wave of cases. Being immunocompromised from his medication psychologically adds a whole other layer of stress, so he says he can’t get the booster soon enough.

“I would take it in a second, I think it’s a great idea, it would give me some peace of mind,” Williamson said “One day of feeling not good is worth, you know, not having to worry about dying for the next six months or a year or however so.”

As with the first two doses of the vaccine, you will have to prove that you are eligible before receiving it. Those who are able to get this booster include solid organ transplant recipients or those diagnosed with conditions that deem them immunocompromised. The Florida Department of Health in Collier County says it’s going to take a little before it’s ready to start giving boosters.

“After we receive approval from the CDC, we will get guidance as to when we can administer a third shot, what the timeline is between a second dose and third dose and also what constitutes an immunocompromised condition,” said Kristine Hollingsworth, spokeswoman for FDOH-Collier.

The Biden administration is expected to lay out a booster strategy for all vaccinated Americans come September. Experts are still mixed on whether people who received the Johnson & Johnson shot will need a booster.