COVID-19 & Down Syndrome Resource Consortium issued statement on COVID-19 booster shots

The CDC has recommended, as of September 30, 2021, that adults age 65+ and those age 18+ who live in long-term care settings, have underlying medical conditions, work in high-risk settings, or live in high-risk settings should receive an additional dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine after the initial 2 doses. Adults 18+ with Down syndrome are specifically noted as at risk and included among adults with 'underlying medical conditions.'

The Consortium's statement reads:

"The COVID-19 & Down Syndrome Consortium supports the CDC’s current guidance that states adults with Down syndrome age 18+ are eligible for a Pfizer COVID-19 booster shot. As adults with Down syndrome are at higher risk for severe illness associated with COVID-19, booster shots should be scheduled as soon as possible six months after their second dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

Recent data show they are more likely than the general population to experience a “breakthrough” COVID-19 infection and/or experience more severe outcomes during a breakthrough infection. A “breakthrough” COVID-19 infection is defined as someone who gets COVID-19 even though they are vaccinated. Please note that adults with Down syndrome who are older and overweight are at higher risk for severe outcomes."

Update - The FDA has approved boosters using the Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson vaccines in the United States. The Moderna vaccine is recommended at 1/2 dosage. Current CDC guidance acknowledges that any of the acceptable vaccines can be used for a booster. Please check with your physician or health care provider for which one would be best for you."