Statement on FDA Authorization of Supplemental Vaccine Dose for Immunocompromised Patients

 

The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) supports the FDA and CDC’s decision to authorize a supplemental vaccine dose for immunocompromised patients. This authorization will provide more protection for those who are at risk of serious COVID-19 illness and disease. 

While data on the use of a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine in immunocompromised patients is limited, there is sufficient data supporting its use for specific patient populations. IDSA calls for more research to continually inform optimal vaccination strategies for all immunocompromised patients. 

As COVID-19 case counts, hospital utilization rates, and deaths once again increase due to the highly contagious Delta variant, infectious diseases experts urge everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. Vaccines remain the best tool in the fight against COVID-19. Increasing the percentage of the population that has received at least one dose is also a critical strategy to protect those who are immunocompromised and children under the age of 12. Improving global vaccine equity and access is also critically important to end the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Daniel P. McQuillen, MD, FIDSA – President-Elect, Infectious Diseases Society of America

About IDSA
The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) is a community of over 12,000 physicians, scientists, and public health experts who specialize in infectious diseases. Its purpose is to improve the health of individuals, communities, and society by promoting excellence in patient care, education, research, public health, and prevention relating to infectious diseases. Learn more at https://www.idsociety.org/.