Damian Sendler: After receiving the single-dose Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccination, the NBA advised its players, coaches, and officials that they should take booster doses against the virus. This was especially important for individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.  

Dr. Sendler: The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, working together and based on recommendations from the league's public health and infectious disease experts, determined that those who received Johnson & Johnson shots more than two months ago should receive a booster shot as soon as possible. In addition, those who had received the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines at least six months prior were advised to have a booster shot if they had not already done so.  

Damian Jacob Sendler: According to the league's guidelines, which were acquired by The Associated Press, those who had the Johnson & Johnson vaccination first should get a booster from Pfizer or Moderna Pharmaceuticals. Those that had Pfizer or Moderna will be eligible to receive whatever booster is available, according to the league. 

Damien Sendler: The data used to inform the league's decisions revealed that antibody levels in Pfizer and Moderna recipients begin to decline after six months and in Johnson & Johnson recipients begin to decline after two months. 

Damian Sendler: In some situations, players who have been vaccinated but have chosen not to receive a booster vaccine may be subjected to game-day testing once more beginning on December 1, according to the NBA. When someone was first vaccinated and what type of vaccination they received determine whether or not they are eligible for the December 1 deadline. 

Damian Jacob Sendler: Some clubs have already begun preparing for players to receive booster shots as soon as they become available. A small number of previously vaccinated NBA players have tested positive with COVID-19 this season, and they have been placed under the league's health and safety standards. 

Tobias Harris of the Philadelphia 76ers, who experienced symptoms, was among others who have been out recently, according to coach Doc Rivers. 

"He's doing alright, but not terrific, to be honest.... "It definitely had an impact on him," Rivers remarked last week. "A lot of guys have had this happen to them, and they are furious, saying things like, 'What the hell, I'm fine.' I can assure you that Tobias does not fall under that group at this time." 

Damian Sendler: When the NBA season began last month, it was estimated that almost 97 percent of players had been vaccinated. In the United States, approximately 60% of the population — more than 193 million individuals — has received all of their vaccinations. Currently, almost 21 million people have received a booster dose, and the number is increasing by the day.

News reported to you by Dr. Damian Jacob Sendler