PHD supports third dose of COVID-19 vaccine for those with weakened immune systems

COEUR d'ALENE — A third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna (mRNA) COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for those with weakened immune systems.

Panhandle Health District (PHD) encourages those with weakened immune systems who have already received two doses of one of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna) to follow the recommendation and get an extra dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least 28 days after their second dose.

Currently, CDC is recommending that moderately to severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose. This includes people who have:

• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood.

• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.

• Received a stem cell transplant within the last two years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.

• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome).

• Advanced or untreated HIV infection.

• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response.

People should talk to their health care provider about their medical condition, and whether getting an additional dose is appropriate for them. A patient’s clinical team is best positioned to determine the degree of immune compromise and appropriate timing of vaccination. The CDC has issued guidance for health care providers and the third dose for immunocompromised patients does not require a physician order, vaccine eligibility will be on the “honor” system/ “self-attestation.”

PHD will request that individuals “self-attest” that they have one of the above immunocompromising conditions to receive their third dose. The health district also asks that individuals bring proof of their prior vaccination to their third dose appointment.

Those with the above-mentioned conditions can schedule their third dose appointment through PHD or other participating providers in the area. Call the PHD COVID-19 hotline to schedule your appointment at 877-415-5225.

Hotline hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m.