By Megan Graham
Adults aged 50 & older and immunocompromised individuals are eligible for a second Pfizer or Moderna booster available at community clinics in La Plata and Archuleta counties.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) this week announced updated guidance on COVID-19 booster shots, recommending additional vaccine boosters for eligible individuals. Vaccine providers in Colorado are authorized to administer the additional doses now.
Under the new guidance, adults aged 50 and over and immunocompromised individuals ages 12 and over are eligible for a second COVID-19 booster at least four months following their last booster shot. Only Pfizer or Moderna vaccines are authorized for second booster doses and either option can be used, regardless of whether an individual received Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson for their initial doses.
These additional shots are widely available, including at community clinics in La Plata and Archuleta counties currently scheduled through April 30, as well as through other providers such as pharmacies and physicians. For a complete list of clinics and providers and the latest guidance, please visit the SJBPH website or contact our office at (970)247-5702.
COVID-19 vaccines are effective in protecting individuals from severe illness, hospitalization and death from the virus. Because immunity can diminish over time, additional booster shots increase protection against COVID-19. The CDC recommends that everyone 5 years and older receive at least two doses of the vaccine. Individuals ages 12 and older should receive at least three doses. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and free. No insurance or ID is required to receive the vaccine.
For COVID-19 data, vaccine clinics, testing information, and information about quarantine and isolation guidance please visit the SJBPH website.
Megan Graham is Communications Director at San Juan Basin Public Health.