Biden, McConnell Get Booster Shots Following New CDC Guidance

President Joe Biden, 78, received a booster shot against COVID-19 at the White House on Monday afternoon, days after the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommended that seniors who had gotten the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine more than six months ago should get them. 

Biden’s booster dose comes after the CDC endorsed Pfizer booster shots for those 65 and over and those in long-term care, as well as for people between 50 and 64 with underlying medical conditions. The CDC’s booster endorsement does not cover those who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine regimens. 

“I know it doesn’t look like it, but I am over 65 — I wish I — way over, and that’s why I’m getting my booster shot today,” said Biden. “The bottom line is if you’re fully vaccinated, you’re highly protected now from severe illness, even if you get COVID-19. You’re safe, and we’re going to do everything we can to keep it that way with the boosters.”

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), 79, also revealed Monday that he had gotten a COVID-19 booster shot, something he called “an easy decision,” noting that he survived childhood polio before a vaccine for it was available. “All Americans should speak with their doctors and get vaccinated,” he said.