Pfizer offers booster COVID vaccines



Pfizer offers booster COVID vaccines

The Pfizer vaccine is now available as a booster dose. The booster doses are currently recommended for people who received Pfizer for their first two doses and who completed their initial Pfizer series over 6 months ago, AND fall into one of the following groups:

  • People who are 65 or older
  • Residents in long-term care facilities
  • People 18 to 64 years old with underlying medical conditions
  • People 18 to 64 years old who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of their occupation

According to the CDC, occupations at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission include front line essential workers and health care workers, including:

  • First responders
  • Education staff
  • Food and agriculture workers
  • Manufacturing workers
  • Correction workers
  • US Postal Service workers
  • Public transit workers
  • Grocery store workers

You can find booster dose clinics as they are scheduled at www.pacificcountycovid19.com.

Booster Dose Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get a booster dose?

Anywhere offering Pfizer vaccine. The booster doses are the same as the first and second Pfizer doses, so you can get a booster dose from medical clinics and pharmacies offering Pfizer vaccines. You can find a location near you by visiting www.pacificcountycovid19.com.

Can I get my booster dose at the same time as my flu shot?

Yes, you can get your COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, including the annual influenza vaccine.

If I need a booster does that mean the vaccine isn't working?

No, COVID-19 vaccines continue to be very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. This includes the Delta variant. Studies are showing that protection against mild and moderate illness may decrease over time, especially among certain higher risk groups. Getting a booster dose 6 months after completing the first two doses will provide an increased immune response and better protection against COVID-19.

Am I still considered fully vaccinated if I do not get a booster?

Yes, people are still considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-dose series or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine.

What about people who got Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines?

The current booster dose recommendations apply only to those who received the Pfizer vaccine. Federal health officials will review data on the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines in the coming weeks and may issue booster dose recommendations for those vaccines in the future.