On Jan. 6, the Western States Scientific Review Workgroup joined the CDC in recommending new guidelines for the Pfizer vaccine.
The new guidance, which takes effect in Oregon immediately, says:
- Children ages 12-15 can now get a Pfizer booster at least five months after their second dose.
- The wait time for a booster dose has been shortened to at least five months after receiving their initial series of the Pfizer vaccine.
- Immunocompromised children ages 5-11 can now receive a third primary series dose of the Pfizer vaccine.
It’s more important than ever to get boosted. It is vital in protecting you against severe cases of COVID-19, especially with the Omicron variant spreading so quickly. With just the primary series of vaccines, you’re only 35% protected from Omicron. With a booster, that protection level jumps up to 75%. Boosters take only two to three days to strengthen your immune response.
Where to get a COVID-19 booster
- if you have a doctor, ask them first
- visit the Malheur County Health Department any Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (no appointment needed)
- Contact a local pharmacy to schedule an appointment
- Contact a local medical clinic to schedule an appointment
- Text ORCOVID to 898211 (English and Spanish) or email ORCOVID@211info.org
- Call 211 or 1-866-698-6155, toll-free, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Mountain Time) daily, including holidays
- Or you can use the vaccine locator tool on OHA’s website, found here.