September 13, 2021

If the vaccine really works, why will a booster shot be required?

Our immunity can wane over time. A booster stimulates the immune system again.

Just because you need a booster does not mean that the vaccine didn’t work. As an example, we all know we need a tetanus booster after ten years, but no one would argue that the tetanus vaccine doesn’t work. Our immunity can wane. That means when you aren’t exposed to the virus anymore, your immunity diminishes. Then when you are exposed to the virus, specifically one that has mutated, you might not have the full immune response that you should have. That is why you want to stimulate your immune system again with the booster.  

For more information, see:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html

Submitted by Tom Math, MD and Jill Amsberry, DO