Perspectives: How Should The US Prioritize Booster Shots?

Following the CDC's approval of a third shot of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for those 65 and older or who are at high risk, many Americans remain divided on how the nation should administer booster shots moving forward. The U.S. has been taking notes from Israel's booster shot rollout that launched on Aug. 29, which made the third vaccine dose available for vaccinated individuals 12 and older. One study conducted at an Israeli hospital found that antibody counts in the body after a third dose were about 10 times higher than after a second dose. Israel said its booster shot strategy has helped combat the highly infectious Delta variant, and commended the U.S. for approving the shots for certain adults. “The main question now is of prioritization,” said Israeli public health official Dr. Nadav Davidovitch. After the World Health Organization called for a moratorium on booster shots until the end of the year to help other countries, some health officials across the globe have called for more evidence to justify giving booster shots to most Americans. 

Voices across the spectrum questioned the booster shot rollout, but opinions diverged on how to administer them. Some right-rated voices believe that individuals "more at risk of severe illness should have the booster option" and that Americans should be prioritized before other nations. Some outlets noted how "it’s not a zero-sum game," suggesting that the U.S. can do both by ramping up vaccine production through "accelerated technology" and utilizing international alliances. Left-rated outlets were more likely to highlight criticism from the scientific community that points to the "extreme global vaccine inequity." Some also fear that the CDC's narrowing of Biden's initial plan will result in more vaccine hesitancy across the country.