The recommended frequency for COVID-19 booster shots depends on age, immune status, and local epidemiology, with updated guidance for the 2024–2025 season:
- For adults aged 65 years and older, it is recommended to receive two doses of the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine spaced about 6 months apart to maintain protection throughout the year
- Persons aged 6 months to 64 years with moderate or severe immunocompromise should also receive at least two doses spaced 6 months apart, with the possibility of additional doses based on clinical judgment and personal circumstances
- Everyone aged 6 months and older should get a bivalent booster dose at least 2 months after their last monovalent dose; individuals 65 and older may receive an additional bivalent booster at least 4 months after their last bivalent dose
- For younger, healthy populations, the benefit of frequent boosters is more modest, and annual boosters may be sufficient mainly for those at higher risk such as older adults or immunocompromised individuals
- The optimal timing of boosters may also vary by location and personal infection history, with early autumn (September–October) often providing the best protection ahead of seasonal COVID-19 surges
In summary, high-risk groups like seniors and immunocompromised persons are advised to get boosters about every 6 months during the 2024–2025 season, while others may follow annual or less frequent booster schedules guided by local recommendations and personal risk
