UPMC doctors share what you need to know about COVID-19 booster shot in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — Top UPMC doctors spoke to the media Friday to clear up any confusion on who is eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine booster.

“The booster offers another chance to build response from vaccine or having recovery from the illness. It doesn’t add something dramatically new, it is a review lesson for your immune system,” explained Chief Medical Officer Dr. Donald Yealy over at UPMC.

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As of now, adults who are immunocompromised, people who are 65 years and older, plus groups that have a high risk of infection such as medical workers, are all eligible to receive the booster shot 6 months after becoming fully vaccinated.

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If you do not fall in one of those categories, UPMC officials said, you are still safe without the booster, as long as you are fully vaccinated.

“We are talking about another purpose of the vaccine, for people the vaccine is working very well but we are starting to see evidence that the immune system needs a reminder,” Dr. Yealy said. “If you went through the process, nine or eight months ago and you’re not In the immunocompromised group you are well protected.”

The booster approval comes at a time where COVID-19 cases are on the rise in our country, and Pittsburgh is no exception. Doctors say that making sure that those who haven’t received their vaccine yet get it because it is key in ending the pandemic.

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“What’s not in dispute hasn’t changed vaccines are one of the strongest tools that we have to change this pandemic. Vaccines when you take them officer you excellent protection serious illness, kill you or require you to be in the hospital or advanced care,” Infection Prevention and Hospital Epidemiology Dr. Graham Snyder said.

UPMC doctors told Channel 11 they are not at capacity, but are seeing an increase of patients. Some are covid patients, and others are general patients.

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