COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio State is now scheduling third doses of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer) for patients with immunocompromised conditions. This follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Aug. 13 emergency authorization of a third COVID-19 vaccine dose for individuals at increased risk for infection due to health conditions that reduce immune system function. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also updated its guidance to recommend patients in these risk categories get three doses of the vaccine. Dr. Raphael E. Pollock, director of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer and a chronic lymphocytic leukemia survivor undergoing treatment at Ohio State’s James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, will be among the first to receive the third dose on Tuesday, Aug. 17. “Recent clinical studies suggest that this extra dose of the vaccine could provide critical additional protection for individuals at the highest risk of infection. It is so critical that people who could benefit from this additional boost of protection obtain it,” Pollock said. “It is just as important that everyone do their part to control the spread of COVID-19 in our community by getting their vaccine in general. We will ultimately beat back this pandemic, but we must do it together and for each other.” Individuals who received either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines and who have undergone a solid organ transplant or who are diagnosed with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise are eligible for a third dose. Appointments must be made at least 28 days after the second vaccine dose. Eligible conditions include: Organ transplant Bone marrow transplant Cancer patients who have had a diagnosis or active treatment within the last five years Advanced or untreated HIV/AIDS Primary immunodeficiency Patients receiving intravenous immune globulin (IVIG), a biologic or other immunosuppressive medication (e.g., mycophenolate) Patients receiving >20 mg of Prednisone per day for longer than 14 days Beginning today, third-dose vaccine appointments can be made through MyChart and are available at locations across Columbus through Ohio State, including same-day appointments. For updated information about vaccine availability and appointments, visit wexnermedicalcenter.osu.edu/coronavirus or call 614-688-8299 (VAXX) for scheduling assistance. -30- Media Contact: Amanda Harper Wexner Medical Center Media Relations 614-293-3737 | Amanda.harper2@osumc.edu