COVID-19 Boosters: Fast Facts ccccccccc Here's what you need to know: Like other viruses, COVID-19 changes over time, leading to new variants. Boosters provide protection against these variants, giving your body an added layer of defense. You can still get COVID-19 after getting a booster, but your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death are greatly reduced. Your booster does not need to be the same vaccine brand as your original COVID-19 vaccination. Recommended booster doses vary by age and health status. Check with your doctor or visit mass.gov/CovidVaccine L COVID - 19 Boosters : Fast Facts ccccccccc Here's what you need to know : Like other viruses , COVID - 19 changes over time , leading to new variants . Boosters provide protection against these variants , giving your body an added layer of defense . You can still get COVID - 19 after getting a booster , but your risk of severe illness , hospitalization , and death are greatly reduced . Your booster does not need to be the same vaccine brand as your original COVID - 19 vaccination . Recommended booster doses vary by age and health status . Check with your doctor or visit mass.gov/CovidVaccine L