FDA, CDC authorize Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 booster doses for all adults
Appointments are available to all Oklahomans 18+
OKLAHOMA CITY — The FDA authorized and the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) unanimously recommended an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the administration of a single booster dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for all adults 18 and older.
Prior to today’s authorization, the booster dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine was authorized only for certain groups of adults particularly at risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
“This is an important step in protecting the health of our communities and preventing a severe winter surge in COVID-19 cases as we head into the holidays and cooler weather,” said Keith Reed, Interim Commissioner for the State Department of Health. “We encourage all eligible Oklahomans to get their booster doses for additional protection before gathering with friends and family this holiday season.”
Pfizer and Moderna booster doses must be administered at least six months after an individual’s primary series of vaccination is complete, in accordance with FDA and CDC guidance. As a reminder, Johnson & Johnson booster doses are also available for individuals 18+, and must be administered at least two months after the initial immunization.
“COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and have been shown to reduce the risk of severe illness or hospitalization,” said OSDH Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gitanjali Pai. “Studies show that booster doses offer an additional layer of protection from known variants, including the Delta variant, and can help prevent the spread of emerging variants. By layering mitigation methods, including booster doses and other methods like the 3 W’s, we can effectively slow the spread of COVID-19 this winter.”
COVID-19 vaccines are readily available at a variety of providers in every county. Eligible Oklahomans can find vaccine appointments in their area by visiting a local pharmacy or personal provider, using the state’s Vaccine Scheduler Portal, visiting https://www.vaccines.gov/ or by calling 211.
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