Third dose available if immune system is impaired

Virginia is offering third doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to people who are “moderately and severely immunocompromised.”

Availability was to begin as soon as Aug. 14, the Department of Health announced Friday.

This follows guidance from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommending a third dose for people with significantly compromised immune systems.

The health department estimated that more than 124,300 Virginians, or 3 percent of those who have received two vaccine doses already, may be eligible for a third dose. While evidence shows it “provides a modest benefit” to improve their immune response, the department recommends these people continue to wear a mask, maintain physical distance in public and avoid poorly ventilated indoor spaces.

For more information, visit vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus.