Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations

COVID-19 Vaccine Provider,

Following the Food and Drug Administration’s action on April 19^th, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has approved simplification of COVID-19 vaccine recommendations and allows more flexibility for people at higher risk who want the option to receive an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose.

The following are the changes to the recommendations:

• Monovalent (original) COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are no longer recommended for use in the U.S.
  • Note: non-mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Novavax and Johnson and Johnson) are not affected by this change and remain available as alternatives for people who cannot or will not receive an mRNA vaccine.
• The CDC now recommends that everyone ages 6 years and older receive a bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of whether they previously completed their (monovalent) primary series.
  • Individuals ages 6 years and older who have already received a bivalent mRNA vaccine do not need to take any additional shot at this time, unless they are 65 years and older or immunocompromised.
    • Individuals >65 years who have received a single dose of a bivalent vaccine may receive one additional dose at least four months following their initial bivalent dose.
    • Individuals > 6 years who are immunocompromises and have received a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine may receive an additional dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months following a dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, and additional doses may be administered at the discretion of their health care provider.
  • For children 6 months through 5 years of age, multiple doses continue to be recommended and will vary by age, vaccine, and which vaccines were previously received. Please refer to the CDC Interim Clinical Considerations for detailed guidance. 

Existing monovalent mRNA (Pfizer and Moderna) COVID-19 vaccine inventory:

• Many providers still have monovalent Moderna and Pfizer products on their shelves. Since these are no longer authorized for use, providers should report these as waste in the Vaccine Allocation and Ordering System (VAOS).

Providers are encouraged to monitor inventory and order additional stock of bivalent vaccines as needed. Please reach out to DSHS COVID vaccine management at COVID19VacMgmt@dshs.texas.gov with any questions on reporting these doses or ordering additional bivalent vaccine.

Resources:

• Pfizer HCP FS 04182023 (fda.gov)
• Pfizer Recipient and Caregiver FS 04182023 (fda.gov)
• Moderna Recipients and Caregivers Fact Sheet 6m+ 04182023 (fda.gov)
• Moderna HCP Fact Sheet 6m+ 04182023 (fda.gov)

Thank you for your continued support with COVID-19 vaccination efforts.