The City and County of Honolulu is extending its free COVID-19 testing to all O‘ahu residents through Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021. Those eligible can take advantage of test kits being made available at the City’s Mobile Lab at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. All clients must pre-register under the City pre-paid section at https://oahucitypass.lumisight.com/. Those who pre-register for a test will receive a QR code upon completion of registration. To improve operations, no walk-ins will be accepted at the airport testing site. The PCR mid-turbinate test will be processed and results provided to participants within six hours. Those who register will be required to bring a valid state ID displaying their O‘ahu address/zip code. This testing program is made possible through an agreement with the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai‘i Consortium. The closest parking garage to the testing site is the Terminal 2 Parking Garage located directly across from Terminal 2. The entrance to this structure can be accessed from the second level of the Airport Access Road directly across from the Administration Tower across Lobby 5. Testing Site: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Diamond Head Tour Group Area (just past baggage claim 31) Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open 7 days a week, including on holidays. For more information on this testing program, please call (833) 560-0997 or email covidresponse@kidneyhi.org. Additional details can also be found at kidneyhi.org/covid-19-testing-screening.

The Hawaii State Department of Education (HIDOE) today launched an interactive dashboard on its website to display confirmed COVID-19 case data at its 257 schools and other Department offices. “This dashboard was designed with parents in mind as we work to build confidence in the critical work our schools are doing to keep schools open and safe for learning,” interim Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “It’s part of our commitment to continuously improve communication and transparency as we build trust with our communities. We encourage everyone to take a look at the data for themselves and see what we’re seeing — that schools are not amplifiers of COVID-19 transmission because of the mitigation protocols schools are enforcing.” The dashboard includes confirmed and probable COVID-19 case information from the state, district, complex area and school levels. Case counts are visually displayed by date reported and as a cumulative running total of cases since July 1, 2021. The 2021-22 school year began July 8 for students at multitrack schools and Aug. 3 for all other schools. In accordance with Act 4, Session Laws of Hawaii 2021, the dashboard also includes the date each case was reported to the Department and the date the positively tested individual was last on a school campus. Data will be updated daily, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), prior to the close of business at http://bit.ly/hidoe-covid-updates. Daily case counts will reflect confirmed COVID-19 cases reported the day prior. Reported cases that still require confirmation or processing will not be included in the total. Between Aug. 20 and 26, HIDOE schools and complex areas reported a total of 557 confirmed staff and student cases. Daily counts this week reflect a slight fluctuation due to the Department’s transition to a new online case-reporting system. Schools and the Department worked quickly to respond to these cases, identify and notify close contacts, direct appropriate individuals to quarantine, disinfect facilities as necessary, and continue to enforce the core essential strategies. While community transmission levels remain high, the Department has no known cases of students getting sick with COVID-19 as a result of coming to school, and there is no evidence of clusters on HIDOE campuses. Schools will continue to make the following notifications for all confirmed and probable cases: Immediate notification to individuals who may have come into close contact with the infected person about possible exposure while maintaining confidentiality in accordance with state and federal law. Notification to staff and parents/guardians about the possible exposure and HIDOE activities to contain the spread of infection. The dashboard reporting system will replace the Department’s news releases of weekly case reports. HIDOE families and interested members of the public are encouraged to check the dashboard regularly for updates.

COVID-19 testing is continuously being conducted in the state prisons and jails as well as in the contracted Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, AZ. The Department of Public Safety (PSD) continues to encourage all staff and inmates to voluntarily get tested and receive the COVID-19 vaccination. The latest testing updates received for the correctional facilities are as follows: Oahu Community Correctional Center – 253 inmate test results: 33 positive, 220 negative. Eight (8) positive staff test results received. Two (2) staff recoveries reported. Maui Community Correctional Center – 10 inmate test results: four (4) positive, six (6) negative. Kauai Community Correctional Center – Seven (7) inmate test results: One (1) positive, six (6) negative. 30 inmates have recovered, dropping the total active positive inmate count to 33. Halawa Correctional Facility – Three (3) inmate test results: Two (2) positive, one (1) negative. Three (3) positive staff test results. One (1) staff recovery. Women’s Community Correctional Center – 276 negative inmate test results. Two (2) positive staff test results. Hawaii Community Correctional Center – 18 negative inmate test results. One (1) positive staff test result. For more detailed inmate testing data, PSD’s Pandemic Plan and information on response efforts made to safeguard the inmates, staff and public, visit the dedicated COVID-19 webpage at: http://dps.hawaii.gov/blog/2020/03/17/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-resources/.

The Hawaiʻi State Senate will reconvene the Second Special Session on August 26 and 27 to consider the appointment of Sonja M.P. McCullen as Associate Judge to the Intermediate Court of Appeals. The process will begin with a Senate Judicial Committee hearing, chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads, on Wednesday, August 25, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. View the hearing notice here: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/splsession2021b/Hearing%20JDC%2008-25-21.pdf Members of the public who wish to testify via videoconference should use the Legislature's website (www.capitol.hawaii.gov) to submit their written testimony and select the option to indicate they will be testifying remotely for the hearing. Written testimony is required to participate via videoconference and must be submitted at least 24 hours before the hearing. Additional information and details are on the Legislature's website. The Senate will reconvene in a floor session on Thursday, August 26 at 10:00 a.m. This will be followed by a separate decision-making meeting of the Judiciary Committee at 10:30 a.m. The final Senate vote on the appointment is expected on Friday, August 27 at 11:00 a.m. The special session will only address the pending judicial appointment.

Officials continue to monitor former Tropical Cyclone Linda, advises residents and visitors to prepare for potential weather impacts County of Kaua‘i officials continue to monitor former Tropical Cyclone Linda, and is advising the public to get prepared and remain vigilant for potential weather impacts. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the latest forecast anticipates that former Tropical Cyclone Linda, now a remnant low, is expected to start impacting the state tonight into Monday. Heavy rainfall, high surf, and strong winds could affect portions of Kaua‘i beginning as early as Monday afternoon. A Flash Flood Watch is currently in effect for all islands through Monday night. A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that leads to flash flooding. Residents and visitors should monitor the weather and be prepared to take action in the event that a Flash Flood Warning is issued. A High Surf Advisory for east-facing shores also remains in effect through Monday. A Wind Advisory will be in effect starting 6 a.m. Monday through 6 a.m. Tuesday. East winds 20 to 30 mph with localized gusts over 50 mph are expected, according to NWS. Weather advisories may be extended or modified as conditions develop. For weather updates, call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 245-6001, or visit the NWS website, www.weather.gov/hfo. Officials recommend the following actions when preparing for a weather emergency: · Emergency Preparedness Kits – Emergency preparedness kits should contain at least a 14-day supply of food and water (to include non-perishable food and one gallon of water per person per day). Kits should also include a battery powered radio, flashlight, an extra supply of prescription medicines and other items specific to individual and family needs. It is also recommended that face coverings and hand sanitizer also be included in your kits. Set aside an emergency supply of any needed medication and keep a copy of your prescriptions in case you run out of medication after a disaster. · Check Your Property – Walk your property, checking for small outdoor items that could be picked up by high winds, and check for potential flood threats. If time and conditions permit, clear your gutters and other drainage systems. · Make an Action Plan – Discuss with family members what you plan to do if a hurricane or tropical storm threatens. Make an action plan, which should include details such as whether your family will shelter in place or evacuate to a shelter. There are no plans to open shelters at this time; however, the county will work with the American Red Cross to open shelters on an as-needed basis and will announce a list of open shelters if or when they become available. · Outdoor activities – Visitors and residents are urged to check conditions before venturing out for any hiking or beach excursions. Do not cross swollen rivers or streams, and always check with a lifeguard at any lifeguard station before entering the ocean. Know before you go. For up-to-date information about Kaua‘i ocean conditions and ocean safety, please speak to a county lifeguard, visit www.hawaiibeachsafety.com, or call the Ocean Safety Bureau at 241-4984. · Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative – Please visit http://website.kiuc.coop/ to learn more about how to prepare for a power outage. · Kaua‘i Department of Water – DOW officials advise that during a weather emergency, strong winds and/or flooding can disrupt electrical power to DOW pumps and equipment, road-access to water sources, and may impact water quality. For more information on preparedness tips for a water emergency, please visit www.kauaiwater.org or see more information at the end of this news release. · Stay Tuned – Continue to stay tuned to local media broadcast channels for the most up-to-date information. The following provides a list of important resources on emergency preparedness. o Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency – www.kauai.gov/kema o NOAA Central Pacific Hurricane Center – www.hurricanes.gov/cphc o National Weather Service – www.weather.gov/hfo, or automated weather line at 245-6001 o Blackboard Connect (The county’s free emergency notification service) – Sign up at www.kauai.gov/kema, or call the KEMA at 241-1800 ###

The Hawai‘i State Department of Health Kaua‘i District Health Office reported 36 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, Aug. 21. Today’s cases are two visitors and 34 residents. Of the 36 cases, eight are children and 28 are adults. Eight of the cases are related to travel – four mainland and four interisland. The remaining 28 cases are considered community-acquired. Fourteen of the community-acquired infections are close contacts of previously announced cases or are tied to one of the active clusters. The remaining 14 community-acquired cases have no known source of infection. Additionally, the Department of Health has identified a new cluster associated with a social gathering. “As we see growing numbers of community-acquired infections, it is clear that the virus is circulating more and more widely throughout our island,” said Dr. Janet Berreman, Kaua‘i District Health Officer. “We each have a role to play in slowing this spread. We need to avoid large gatherings as much as possible—whether indoors or outdoors. We need to wear well-fitting masks over our nose and mouth whenever we are around people from outside our household, especially indoors. We need to stay home—and get tested—if we feel sick. And of course, those who are eligible and have not yet been vaccinated should get vaccinated. If you have questions about vaccines, you can submit them to ‘Ask Dr. B’ on the County’s Facebook page.” All active cases are in isolation, and close contacts are being identified, offered testing, and directed to quarantine. Investigations are ongoing. Today’s cases bring the number of active cases to 218, with three hospitalized, and 1,075 cumulative cases. Kaua‘i’s cumulative case count includes 1021 confirmed locally, eight probable, and 46 positive cases diagnosed elsewhere, as they received their pre-travel test results after arriving on island. DOH contact tracing and more info: Daily case counts continue to rise rapidly, despite the Department of Health’s efforts to perform comprehensive case investigation and contact tracing. If you test positive, please don’t wait to hear from the Department of Health before taking action: isolate yourself at home, and let those you’ve been in contact with know that they’ve been exposed. Your close contacts should quarantine and plan to be tested. Your prompt action makes a difference. If you have symptoms or are feeling sick, you should isolate yourself immediately, stay away from household members, and not go out – including to work or school – unless you are seeking testing or getting health care. Those who have been vaccinated should still be tested if they believe they may have been exposed or if they feel sick. Many cases are in residents who have traveled. If you plan a trip, please be vaccinated before you go. And whether or not you are vaccinated, follow Hawai‘i’s prudent rules and wear a mask in crowded indoor settings. Finally, please get tested 3 to 5 days after you return to Kaua‘i. Vaccine info: Vaccination is free and widely available on the island, including on weekends and evenings and pop-up vaccination opportunities at community sites. Many vaccination sites accept walk-ins. Residents aged 18 and older are eligible for any vaccine available at pharmacy, hospital, and clinic locations. The Pfizer vaccine has been authorized for use in those 12 years of age and older, and are currently available at Wilcox Medical Center, Līhu‘e Longs, and Līhu‘e Safeway. For details on the vaccination sites, visit www.kauai.gov/vaccine. Testing info: Free testing is available at the Convention Hall, weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, a free mobile testing van is available for walk-ins from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Kekaha Neighborhood Center on Wednesdays, Kīlauea Neighborhood Center on Thursdays, Kalāheo Neighborhood Center on Fridays, Hanalei Neighborhood Center on Saturdays, and Kapa‘a Neighborhood Center on Sundays. Testing performed at the Convention Hall and through the mobile testing van is rapid PCR. Same-day results are sent via email. Free drive-thru testing is also available daily at Līhu‘e Pharmacy Group, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments are highly recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. For an appointment, register online at PreventCOVIDHI.com or call (808) 635-4968. Līhu‘e Pharmacy offers PCR mid-turbinate testing. Results are expected to be provided the same day via email. Testing is also available through your primary care physician, a hospital, or an urgent care clinic. Please contact those providers directly for more information. For more details, visit https://www.kauai.gov/covidtest. For more information on the county’s COVID-19 response, visit www.kauai.gov/COVID-19.

SENATE PRESIDENT RONALD D. KOUCHI AND REPRESENTATIVE JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA ANNOUNCE ADDITIONAL COVID POP-UP TESTING SITES Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi (Senate District 8 – Kauaʻi and Niʻihau) and Representative James Kunane Tokioka (House District 15 - Wailua Homesteads, Hanamaulu, Līhuʻe, Puhi, Old Koloa Town, Omao) announced today that additional pop-up testing sites will be available on Kauaʻi to help combat the COVID-19 surge occurring statewide. Senate President Kouchi and Representative Tokioka have reached out to the Department of Health (DOH), the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaiʻi (NKFH), and Kevin Glick of Līhu‘e Pharmacy to ensure additional testing sites are available across the island. “In order to advert a strain on our healthcare system, additional testing & vaccine sites are imperative to identifying and stopping the spread of this new delta variant,” said Senate President Kouchi. “We want to make testing accessible and convenient for those who want to get tested to be able to receive a free test.” School-based testing will also be available through the NKFH to the Department of Education (DOE) for students, employees, contractors, coaches, security personnel, volunteers, and other persons who are physically present in K-12 schools. “I have had emails, phone calls, and numerous people stopping me to share their valid concerns regarding students back to in-person learning while our State is in the middle of a surge," said Representative Tokioka. “I would like to thank the Director of Health – Dr. Libby Char, Dr. Janet Berreman, and the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai‘i for stepping up to assist the community and the Department of Education during this unsettling time." School testing schedule will be available soon. In addition, K-12 schools are eligible for participation in the Operation Expanded Testing, supported through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For community-based testing, the DOH, in coordination with County and private sector partners, also continues to expand free testing opportunities. The County of Kauaʻi and Kauaʻi District Health Office (KDHO) offer testing at the War Memorial Convention Hall on weekdays from 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM. A testing van providing services one day a week to the Kekaha, Kīlauea, Kalāheo, Hanalei, and Kapaʻa Neighborhood Centers to provide free same-day rapid testing. Community-based free testing is also available through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services CVS/Longs in Kapaʻa. Senate President Kouchi and Representative Tokioka are urging residents to get tested and vaccinated. To avoid additional wait times, please complete your preregistration form at preventcovidhi.com. For more information, visit www.kauai.gov/covid-19 to find the most up-to-date information on testing and vaccination.

Statewide Fall Prevention Awareness Campaign begins August 22 designed to reduce fall injuries among kūpuna Fall-related injuries and fatalities among Hawai‘i seniors are reaching troubling numbers. Every year in Hawai‘i on average 128 seniors die, 2,010 are hospitalized, and 9,950 are treated in emergency departments for fall-related accidents. Falls disproportionately affect the elderly, and statistics show those older than age 65 are the most vulnerable. In addition to the emotional and physical impact on seniors and their caregivers, falls create a significant financial toll on families and the healthcare system. Annually, in Hawai’i, fall-related trauma results in $120 million in hospital and medical charges. The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) and the Hawai‘i Fall Prevention Consortium in collaboration with The Tai Chi for Health Institute and City Mill are launching a statewide senior fall prevention awareness campaign from Aug. 22 – Sept. 22. The campaign features new public service announcements airing on Hawai‘i TV networks, a tai chi instructor workshop, “Fall Proof” workshops at City Mill, and community presentations focusing on falls prevention for older adults. All events will follow and are subject to pandemic restrictions. The Hawai‘i Fall Prevention Consortium was founded in 2003 with support and leadership from DOH’s Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention System Branch (EMSIPSB). The consortium includes government agencies, professional associations, non-profit organizations, hospitals, care facilities and senior organizations. Hawai‘i’s fall prevention program was recognized as “the finest public awareness campaign in the nation” during a past NCOA National Falls Prevention Resources Conference in Alexandria, Virginia. “Almost every hour, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, a senior with a fall-related injury is transported by ambulance to a hospital emergency department. Yet many falls and fall-related injuries can be prevented with existing knowledge and technology,” said Dr. Alvin C. Bronstein, chief of EMSIPSB. “The Department of Health is pleased to be able to continue this valuable program to help ensure the safety and well-being of Hawai‘i seniors, the fastest growing segment of our population.” The following programs are offered during the fall awareness campaign: “Aging Isn’t for Sissies” This award-winning presentation uses humor to educate participants about all major fall prevention techniques including medication reviews by a pharmacist or doctor, annual eye examinations, a home safety check, a question and answer session with your doctor, and the option of using a “medical alert” device, especially for those living alone. Currently, EMSIPSB is scheduling presentations based on community COVID capabilities on all islands. All presentations will follow current COVID-19 distance and safety guidelines. Call (808) 733-9202 to find out if there is a program in your area. “Fall-Proof” Senior Assistive Safety Devices for Home Workshop The City Mill stores located on Nimitz Hwy. and in Pearl City on O‘ahu host this program. The workshop demonstrates a variety of available home safety equipment and devices (bath and shower grab bars, anti-slip materials, nightlights) as well as techniques (reduce clutter, install safety rails, install enhanced lighting/nightlights) that make a home safer. Presentations will follow all current COVID-19 distance and safety guidelines. See participating City Mill stores for a schedule of these workshops. Tai Chi for Arthritis/Fall Prevention Instructor Workshop A Tai Chi for Arthritis/Fall Prevention (TCAFP) Instructor Workshop is being held to re-certify TCAFP instructors. This is a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sponsored exercise program that teaches attendees how to relax mind and body. The program uses choreographed and classic tai chi movements linking total body movements into maximum physical and mental health benefits. Tai chi is one of the world’s leading fall prevention exercises and supported by CDC as a valuable fall prevention activity. All classes will follow current COVID-19 distance and safety guidelines. For information on community classes based on pandemic restrictions, call (808) 733-9202 or visit: https://health.hawaii.gov/injuryprevention/home/preventing-falls/tai-chi/. The Hawai‘i State Department of Health offers the following important advice to seniors, their family members, and caregivers to prevent falls and fall-related injuries that can limit mobility and independence: Annually review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure they are not affecting your balance. Receive annual eye examinations. If you live alone, a Personal Electronic Safety Device is essential. These devices save lives every day. Make your home safer by removing fall hazards and improving lighting. Exercise regularly to increase balance and flexibility. According to the CDC, evidence-based exercise programs such as Tai Chi for Health can increase strength and improve balance, making falls much less likely.

COVID-19 testing is continuously being conducted in the state prisons and jails as well as in the contracted Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, AZ. The latest testing updates received for the correctional facilities are as follows: Maui Community Correctional Center – 172 inmate test results: 17 positive, 155 negative. 20 inmates recovered and two (2) inmates were released. The active positive inmate count in custody dropped to 63. Oahu Community Correctional Center – 22 inmate test results: three (3) positive, 19 negative. There were six (6) positive staff test results reported. Halawa Correctional Facility – No new inmate test results received. One (1) employee has recovered. There is one (1) remaining active positive staff case. Hawaii Community Correctional Center – Two (2) negative inmate test results. Women’s Community Correctional Center – Two (2) negative inmate test results. The Department of Public Safety (PSD) continues to encourage all staff and inmates to voluntarily get tested and receive the COVID vaccination. For PSD’s Pandemic Plan and more information on PSD’s planning and response to COVID-19, inmate testing data, and information detailing the efforts made to safeguard the inmates, staff and public, visit the dedicated COVID-19 webpage at: http://dps.hawaii.gov/blog/2020/03/17/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-resources/

The Department of Public Safety Training and Staff Development (TSD) section reports 44 negative staff and recruit test results. Voluntary testing was offered to all TSD staff and recruits after one law enforcement recruit tested positive on August 12. COVID-19 testing is continuously being conducted in our state prisons and jails as well as in the contracted Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, AZ. The latest testing updates received for the correctional facilities are as follows: Kauai Community Correctional Center – 70 inmate test results: 17 positive, 53 negative. Halawa Correctional Facility – 23 inmate test results: 2 positive, 21 negative. 41 inmates recovered dropping the total active positive inmate count to 23, two of which are hospitalized. Oahu Community Correctional Center – 15 inmate test results: 10 positive, 5 negative. The Department of Public Safety (PSD) continues to encourage all staff and inmates to voluntarily get tested and receive the COVID vaccination. For PSD’s Pandemic Plan and more information on PSD’s planning and response to COVID-19, inmate testing data, and information detailing the efforts made to safeguard the inmates, staff and public, visit the dedicated COVID-19 webpage at: http://dps.hawaii.gov/blog/2020/03/17/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-resources/.

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY THE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY SUBJECT: Maximizing Assistance to Respond to COVID-19 By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121–5207 (the “Stafford Act”), I hereby order as follows: Section 1. Policy. Consistent with the nationwide emergency declaration of March 13, 2020, concerning the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it is the policy of my Administration to combat and respond to COVID-19 with the full capacity and capability of the Federal Government to protect and support our families, schools, and businesses, and to assist State, local, Tribal, and territorial governments to do the same, including through emergency and disaster assistance available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Sec. 2. Assistance for Category B COVID-19 Emergency Protective Measures. FEMA shall provide a 100 percent Federal cost share for all work eligible for assistance under Public Assistance Category B, pursuant to sections 403 (42 U.S.C. 5170b), 502 (42 U.S.C. 5192), and 503 (42 U.S.C. 5193) of the Stafford Act, including work described in section 3(a) of the Presidential Memorandum of January 21, 2021 (Memorandum to Extend Federal Support to Governors’ Use of the National Guard to Respond to COVID-19 and to Increase Reimbursement and Other Assistance Provided to States), and in section 2 of that memorandum on the Governors’ use of the National Guard, performed from January 20, 2020, through December 31, 2021. Sec. 3. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this memorandum shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or (ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals. (b) This memorandum shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations. (c) This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. (d) The Administrator of FEMA is authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register. JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)` now recommends that people whose immune systems are compromised moderately to severely should receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after the initial 2 doses. Widespread vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic. Read CDC’s statement. What You Need to Know People who are moderately to severely immunocompromised are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 because they are more at risk of serious, prolonged illness. People with moderately to severely compromised immune systems may not build the same level of immunity to 2-dose vaccine series compared to people who are not immunocompromised. People who have compromised immune systems may benefit from an additional dose to make sure they have enough protection against COVID-19. CDC recommends people who are moderately to severely immunocompromised should receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine after the initial 2 doses. This additional dose intended to improve immunocompromised people’s response to their initial vaccine series is not the same as a booster dose, given to people when the immune response to a primary vaccine series is likely to have waned over time Data on Decreased Immune Response Among Immunocompromised People People who are moderately to severely immunocompromised make up about 3% of the adult population and are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 because they are more at risk of serious, prolonged illness. Studies indicate some immunocompromised people don’t always build the same level of immunity after vaccination the way non-immunocompromised people do, and may benefit from an additional dose to ensure adequate protection against COVID-19. In small studies pdf icon[2 MB, 36 Pages], fully vaccinated immunocompromised people have accounted for a large proportion of hospitalized “breakthrough cases,” and that suggests immunocompromised people are more likely to transmit the virus to household contacts. Who Needs an Additional COVID-19 Vaccine? Currently, CDC is recommending that moderately to severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose. This includes people who have: Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system Received a stem cell transplant within the last 2 years or are taking medicine to suppress the immune system Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome) Advanced or untreated HIV infection Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response People should talk to their healthcare provider about their medical condition, and whether getting an additional dose is appropriate for them. Find a COVID-19 Vaccine: Search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you. Check your local pharmacy’s website to see if vaccination walk-ins or appointments are available. Contact your state or local health department for more information Frequently Asked Questions How long after getting my initial COVID-19 vaccines can I get an additional dose? CDC recommends the additional dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine be administered at least four weeks after a second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. Can you mix and match the vaccines? For people who received either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine series, a third dose of the same mRNA vaccine should be used. A person should not receive more than three mRNA vaccine doses. If the mRNA vaccine product given for the first two doses is not available or is unknown, either mRNA COVID-19 vaccine product may be administered. What should immunocompromised people who received the J&J/Janssen vaccine do? The FDA’s recent EUA amendment only applies to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, as does CDC’s recommendation. Emerging data have demonstrated that immunocompromised people who have low or no protection following two doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines may have an improved response after an additional dose of the same vaccine. There is not enough data at this time to determine whether immunocompromised people who received the Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine also have an improved antibody response following an additional dose of the same vaccine. What are the benefits of people receiving an additional vaccine dose? CDC recommends the additional dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine be administered at least four weeks (28 days) after a second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. What are the risks of vaccinating individuals with an additional dose? There is limited information about the risks of receiving an additional dose of vaccine, and the safety, efficacy, and benefit of additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine in immunocompromised people continues to be evaluated. So far, reactions reported after the third mRNA dose were similar to that of the two-dose series: fatigue and pain at injection site were the most commonly reported side effects, and overall, most symptoms were mild to moderate. However, as with the two-dose series, serious side effects are rare, but may occur. August 16, 2021