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.