Anyone age 50 or older can now get a second COVID-19 booster shot.
Based on emerging evidence that a second COVID-19 booster improves protection against severe COVID-19, the CDC and FDA authorized a second booster of Pfizer or Moderna for individuals ages 50 and older who are at least four months past their first booster. A second booster was also approved for immunocompromised people over age 12 who received their booster at least four months ago.
“Studies show that a second booster for vulnerable groups can be lifesaving. This second booster is especially important for individuals who are more vulnerable to COVID-19, including all Alaska Natives over 50 and those who have immunocompromising health conditions,” said YKHC Chief of Staff Ellen Hodges. Throughout the pandemic, Alaska Natives have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations.
YKHC will start administering second booster shots on Thursday, March 31. YK Delta residents can sign up for a second booster shot online at www.ykhc.org/vaccine or by calling 800-478-6599. In Bethel, please call 907-543-6949 to schedule an appointment.
COVID-19 vaccines and boosters have proven to be safe and highly effective at protecting people from hospitalization and death. However, protection against infection declines over time.
A first booster is strongly encouraged for people ages 12 and older who are five months past their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna or two months past their Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The majority of individuals who have been hospitalized or died due to COVID-19 were unvaccinated. Everyone ages 5 and older should receive the COVID-19 vaccine.