COVID-19 Vaccination Frequency for 75-Year-Olds
A 75-year-old individual should receive one dose of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine annually, with a minimum interval of 8 weeks from their last COVID-19 vaccine dose. 1, 2, 3
Current Annual Vaccination Schedule
All adults aged 65 years and older, including those aged 75, should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine regardless of prior vaccination history. 2, 3 This represents a shift to annual vaccination similar to influenza vaccines.
The minimum interval between the last COVID-19 vaccine dose and the current 2024-2025 vaccination is 8 weeks. 1, 2, 3
Only one dose of the 2024-2025 vaccine is needed to be up to date for immunocompetent adults. 3
Vaccine Selection Options
Available vaccines for 2024-2025 include Moderna (monovalent, KP.2-strain), Pfizer-BioNTech (monovalent, KP.2-strain), or Novavax (monovalent, JN.1-strain). 2, 3
The vaccine manufacturer does not need to match prior vaccinations—patients can switch between brands. 1, 2
These updated monovalent vaccines are specifically developed against current circulating variants (Omicron JN.1-line, including JN.1 and KP.2), providing enhanced protection compared to previous formulations. 1, 2
Special Considerations for Older Adults
If the 75-year-old has moderate or severe immunocompromise (including active cancer treatment, organ transplant, or significant immunosuppressive therapy), they may require additional doses beyond the single annual dose. 2, 3 In this scenario, follow enhanced vaccination schedules with at least one dose of 2024-2025 vaccine, potentially followed by additional doses. 3
If the individual recently had COVID-19, consider delaying vaccination by 3 months from symptom onset or positive test result to allow natural immune response to mature. 1, 2 This is optional but may optimize immune response.
Co-Administration with Other Vaccines
COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same visit as other recommended vaccines for this age group, including seasonal influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. 2
For influenza vaccination specifically, adults aged ≥65 years should preferentially receive high-dose inactivated, recombinant, or adjuvanted inactivated influenza vaccine. 2
Rationale for Annual Vaccination in Older Adults
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices specifically recommends COVID-19 booster vaccination for all adults aged 65 years and older to reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes in this high-risk population. 2 Evidence from Italian nationwide surveillance demonstrated that booster doses in adults aged ≥80 years provided 75% lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, 82-83% lower risk of hospitalization and ICU admission, and 81% lower risk of death compared to those who completed vaccination ≥5 months prior. 4
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not delay vaccination beyond the recommended 8-week minimum interval, as this prolongs suboptimal protection in a high-risk age group. 3
Do not assume prior vaccination is sufficient—the 2024-2025 formulation is recommended for everyone regardless of vaccination history because it targets currently circulating variants. 3
Do not overlook immunocompromised status, which warrants additional doses beyond the standard single annual dose. 3