California health officials expand COVID-19 booster eligibility for Moderna and Johnson and Johnson

The City of San Francisco held a government meeting on July 4, 2025, focusing on the latest updates regarding COVID-19 booster vaccinations. The meeting began with a detailed overview of the booster process and timeline, which follows the established review and authorization pathway from the FDA to the CDC, and subsequently to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

The discussion highlighted that recipients of Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are now eligible for booster shots, expanding eligibility beyond just Pfizer recipients. This development was presented as a significant step forward in the vaccination effort.

Key points regarding booster guidelines were outlined. For individuals who received mRNA vaccines (Pfizer or Moderna), boosters are available six months after their second dose. Two groups were identified: one group, which includes individuals aged 65 and older, those aged 50 to 64 with underlying medical conditions, and adult residents of long-term care facilities, should receive any booster. The second group, consisting of individuals aged 18 to 49 with underlying medical conditions and those aged 18 to 64 at increased risk of exposure due to occupational or institutional settings, may also receive any booster.

For Johnson & Johnson recipients, eligibility for a booster begins two months after their initial dose, with the option to choose any of the three approved vaccine types for their booster. Additionally, immunocompromised individuals are eligible for a booster six months after completing their third mRNA dose and can also select from any of the approved vaccines.

The meeting concluded with a visual representation of the booster eligibility criteria, aimed at clarifying the complex guidelines for the public. Overall, the discussions underscored the city's commitment to ensuring accessible vaccination options as part of its ongoing public health strategy.