How to get mRNA after J&J

August 4th, 2021
covid-19
The viral vector vaccines (J&J, AstraZeneca) are much better than nothing, even against Delta. But they're also substantially worse than what you get from the mRNA ones (Pfizer and Moderna), especially the single-shot J&J (study, NYT). People who got J&J could likely benefit from an mRNA shot, and while the CDC has not recommended it some places like SF General Hospital are offering supplemental doses.

One of my housemates had received J&J and decided to get a supplemental mRNA shot. Here's what worked for them:

  1. Got to the nearest CVS.
  2. Ask what vaccine they have; if they only have J&J, try somewhere else.
  3. Say yes when they verify that this is your first shot.
  4. CVS asked for their name and birthdate, which they gave, but they weren't asked for ID or insurance. Possibly if you are you would need to decline?

This requires lying to the pharmacy, never something to take lightly, and there could potentially be negative medical/legal/financial consequences, but with the information we currently have it seems like something to consider.

Comment via: facebook, lesswrong, substack

Recent posts on blogs I like:

Linkpost for May

Effective Altruism

via Thing of Things May 4, 2026

Fiddle Practice

For a while I wasn't learning how to play violin very well because whenever it was time to practice I didn't want to. I didn't really like practicing, because (1) it's boring, (2) I have better things to do, and (3) actually I guess there …

via Anna Wise's Blog Posts May 3, 2026

New Pony

I have a new pony. I got her from the Goodwill. Her name is "Rainbow" and her nickname is "Sparkles". We went the usual way, in the pink stroller. We went downstairs and I played with some of the toys. I found the pony in the toy area. …

via Nora Wise's Blog Posts May 3, 2026

more     (via openring)