A booster shot is given to a person to restore the protection that has possibly waned some months after completing the primary series of COVID-19 vaccines.
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Is a third/additional dose different from a booster shot?
Yes, they are different. A third or an additional dose is given to immunocompromised individuals whose initial immune response from the first two doses may not have been strong enough. It is recommended as part of their primary vaccine series to be classified as a fully vaccinated individual.
Who are eligible for Covid-19 Booster shots?
All fully vaccinated adults (18 years old and above), who have completed their primary series of COVID-19 vaccination, are now eligible to get booster shots.
How to get Covid-19 Booster shot in the Philippines?
You may coordinate with your LGU or health facility to register for the booster shot. Bring the following during your appointment:
- Vaccination Card
- Valid ID
Required Volume of Covid-19 Vaccines per booster dose
The government has earlier amended the recommended booster dose interval for fully vaccinated adults starting December 22, 2021. DOH reiterates the following are the required volumes of COVID-19 vaccines for those getting their booster dose:
DOH assures that all vaccines with Philippine FDA Emergency Use Authorization are proven safe and effective.
| Vaccine Brand | Volume |
| AstraZeneca | 0.5 ml/dose |
| Moderna | 0.25 ml/dose (half of the regular dosage |
| Pfizer | 0.3 ml/dose |
| Sinovac | 0.5 ml/dose |
Recommended Booster Dose Combination & Intervals
All fully vaccinated adults (18 years old and above) are now eligible to receive single-dose booster shots at least three months after the second dose of the following vaccines: AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, Sinovac, and Sputnik V. Meanwhile, those who were inoculated with Janssen vaccine can get their booster shots at least 2 months after their first dose.
The Department of Health also reiterates that booster shots are not recommended for ages 12-17 years old.
| Primary Vaccination | Interval for Booster | Homologous Booster | Heterologous Booster |
| AstraZeneca | At least 3 months | AstraZeneca | Pfizer, Moderna |
| Gamaleya Sputnik | At least 3 months | Not yet for Implementation | AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna |
| Moderna | At least 3 months | Moderna | AstraZeneca, Pfizer |
| Pfizer | At least 3 months | Pfizer | AstraZeneca, Moderna |
| Sinovac | At least 3 months | Sinovac | AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna |
| Janssen | At least 2 months | Not yet for Implementation | AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna |
Source: Department of Health Philippines