Anyone who got their first shot of the Pfizer, Moderna, or Novavax (for anyone 12 and older) COVID-19 vaccine should speak with a doctor to decide the best time to get their second shot (or third, if needed). The CDC suggests that waiting eight weeks between the first and second shots increases the protection the vaccines provide in people ages 12 to 49. It may also lower the small risk of heart inflammation (a condition known as myocarditis), especially for males.
It is still recommended to wait three weeks before getting a second Pfizer or Novavax shot and four weeks for the second Moderna shot for:
People with moderately or severely compromised immune systems
People ages 65 or older
People at high risk of getting very sick from COVID-19
Children ages 5 to 11 years if getting Pfizer and 6 to 11 years if getting Moderna (Novavax is not available for people under 12)
Talk with a health care provider if you have questions about when you or your child is due for a second (or third) shot.
Visit the CDC website for a full schedule for vaccines and boosters.