All 3 COVID Vaccine Boosters Now Available In Washington: DOH

Seattle WA

22 October, 2021

6:37 PM

Description

WASHINGTON — With all approvals now in place, eligible Washingtonians now have access to booster shots from all three COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers, according to the state Department of Health. Since Pfizer was first approved for extra shots last month, state officials estimate more than 345,000 boosters and third doses have been provided across the state. Now, the Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Western State Scientific Safety Review Workgroup have approved Moderna and Johnson & Johnson for use in the same groups. "Vaccination continues to be the safest and most effective tool we have to prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and deaths from COVID-19," said Dr. Umair Shah, the state Secretary of Health. "Getting the unvaccinated their first shots remains a priority. A booster dose will further protect fully vaccinated individuals by increasing the vaccine's effectiveness in their bodies, which otherwise may wane over time." Here's are the groups currently eligible for booster shots in Washington: Pfizer/Moderna (At least six months after the second dose) 65 and older.18 – 64 who live in long-term care settings.18 – 64 who have underlying medical conditions or those at increased risk of social inequities.18 – 64 who work or live in high-risk settings. Johnson & Johnson (At least two months after the first dose) Boosters are recommended for everyone 18 and older who received a single dose of Johnson & Johnson. Guidance from the FDA and the CDC allows patients to choose from any of the boosters, meaning they do not need to match them with the vaccine they received initially. Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson boosters contain a full dose, while Moderna's are a half dose. Residents can search for shots using the Vaccine Locator tool or by calling the state's hotline at 833-VAX-HELP. Several local pharmacies also offer boosters, including CVS.