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Pfizer COVID-19 booster vaccines are now available to everyone over the age of 16.
Raleigh NC, December 9, 2021. Eligibility for Pfizer’s COVID-19 booster vaccine has been expanded to include 16 and 17-year-olds, making safe and effective boosters now available to everyone 16 and older.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending a booster for 16- and 17-year-olds after emergency use authorization from the US Food and Drug Administration. For 16- and 17-year-olds to receive a booster from Pfizer six months after the date of their second dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
“Giving your child a COVID-19 booster shot will help strengthen and extend his protection against the COVID-19 virus and especially against newer variants,” said NCDHHS Secretary Mandy K. Cohen, MD. people over 16 to get their booster as we get closer to the holiday season. ”
Previously, COVID-19 booster shots were only available to adults 18 years of age and older. The Pfizer booster is the first and only COVID-19 booster licensed for use in 16 and 17-year-olds, and the Pfizer vaccine is currently the only COVID-19 vaccine licensed for people under the age of 18. Parental consent is required. .
Recent studies indicate that while protection against serious illness and death remains strong for people who are fully vaccinated, people may be more likely to develop milder or asymptomatic COVID-19 over time, including those 16 and under. and 17 years. A single booster dose will help provide continued protection against COVID-19. Data on Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine shows that it is safe and effective.
Booster shots are available anywhere COVID-19 vaccines are available. Because the Pfizer booster is the only brand available for 16- and 17-year-olds, it’s best to check ahead to make sure the place you choose has Pfizer vaccines available.
People do not need a doctor’s note to get a booster shot. Individuals who wish to receive a booster will need to know the dates and brand of their previous COVID-19 vaccine.
COVID-19 booster doses are free for everyone, even if they don’t have health insurance and regardless of their immigration status.
North Carolina’s actions are based on FDA clearance and CDC recommendations. Read the full FDA statement here and the full CDC statement here .
Visit the NCDHHS website for more information on boosters and extra doses . You can find more information about vaccines for children here .
To find a vaccination location, or for more information about COVID-19 vaccines in North Carolina, visit MySpot.nc.gov or call the state’s COVID-19 Vaccine Help Center toll-free at 888-675-4567.
