F.D.A. and CDC Authorize COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots

GARNER – Both the Food and Drug Administration and CDC authorized booster shots for Moderna’s two-dose coronavirus vaccine and Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose shot. Pfizer was previously approved earlier this year. 

Effective immediately, the CDC recommends the following individuals who received a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine are eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more following their initial series; 

• 65 years and older; 

• Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings; 

• Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions; 

• Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings. These settings include: o First responders (e.g., healthcare workers, firefighters, police, congregate care staff), Education staff (e.g., teachers, support staff, daycare workers), Food and agriculture workers, Manufacturing workers, Corrections workers, U.S. Postal Service workers, Public transit workers, Grocery store workers 

Effective immediately, the CDC recommends individuals 18 years and older that received the initial series (1 dose) of Johnson and Johnson are eligible to receive a booster of either Moderna, Pfizer, or Johnson and Johnson 2 months following their primary dose. 

There are now booster recommendations for all three available COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received and others, may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots, according to Chelcee Schleuger, HCHS Community Health Director. 

“Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and reduce the spread of the virus and help prevent new variants from emerging,” Schleuger said. 

Hancock County Community Health is offering your COVID-19 Booster at two different locations. If you are interested in receiving your Booster, you can secure your appointment at https://mercyhealth.rsvpify.com/ . Walk-ins are also welcome. 

•November 4 from 8am-5pm at Duncan Hall (2337 Nation Ave, Britt, IA 50423) 

•All Fridays from 10am-1pm at Community Health (545 State St. Garner, IA 50438) 

If you have any questions, please call HCHS Community Health: 641-923-3676.