The CDC has issued new recommendations for booster doses of the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19, but there are still steps to be taken before First District Health Unit will begin giving the boosters.

The new recommendations authorize providers to offer a booster dose to anyone 65 or older. Additionally, certain people age 18 – 64 can also receive the booster dose based on underlying health conditions or occupational risk. Further clarification is expected to be forthcoming. First District will incorporate the updated recommendations into approved protocols and work increase vaccine supplies before implementing the boosters. The public is encouraged to watch local media and www.fdhu.org for updates.

The booster dose can be given six months after the completion of the primary vaccination series. At this point the booster is only authorized for people who received the Pfizer vaccine. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson are expected to apply for authorization in the near future.

First District Health Unit will continue to offer a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine to people who have moderately to severely compromised immunity. The third dose, also called an additional dose, can be given at least 28 days after the second dose of either Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

First District continues to encourage everyone 12 and older to get vaccinated, eat healthy meals, get enough sleep, and stay physically active. Healthy lifestyles help the immune system and improve the body’s ability to fight diseases like COVID-19. It is also important to stay home if you are sick.

A COVID vaccination appointment can be scheduled online by visiting the First District website, www.fdhu.org, or by calling your local First District Health Unit office.