Beginning Monday, Aug. 23, UK HealthCare will offer a third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for solid-organ transplant recipients and other immunocompromised individuals, in accordance with guidance from the FDA and the CDC.

At this time, only immunocompromised individuals who are 18 years or older are eligible for a third-dose booster vaccination.

Immunocompromised individuals who have previously received two doses of either the Pfizer or the Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are eligible to request a third dose. Anyone who has questions about whether a third dose is appropriate for them should talk to their medical provider. Those who are eligible should wait at least 28 days after their second vaccination before receiving the third.

As long as supply allows, you should receive the same vaccine for your third dose as your previous doses. For example, if you previously completed two doses of the Pfizer vaccine, you should also receive the Pfizer vaccine for your third dose. However, if the specific vaccine you received is not available, then you will be given the alternative mRNA vaccine. 

This guidance applies only to those who received the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. Those who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine are not eligible for a booster dose at this time.

Beginning Monday, you can request an invitation to schedule your appointment for a third-dose booster at participating UK locations at ukvaccine.org. Vaccination is offered at three locations in Lexington, and curbside and drive-through options are available.

You must bring your CDC vaccination card or other proof of vaccination to your appointment. If you do not have a copy of your CDC vaccination card, a record of your vaccination can be requested from the Kentucky Immunization Registry. The immunization team providing vaccinations will not be issuing replacement vaccine cards.  

Vaccination also continues to be available to anyone over age 12 who has not yet been vaccinated. The service is free and insurance is not required. Request an appointment at ukvaccine.org. (Note that minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.)