Updated 12/10/21
Booster shots of COVID-19 vaccines are approved for all adults age 18 and older. Boosters are also available for children ages 16 – 17 (Pfizer only). The approval is based on CDC recommendation and the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) authorization and are important steps forward as we work to stay ahead of the virus and keep Americans safe. Everyone who qualifies for a booster is strongly encouraged to get one as soon as possible in order to receive additional protection.
For individuals who received a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, anyone age 18 and older is eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more after their initial series.
For individuals who received Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, anyone age 16 and older is eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more after their initial series.
For people who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18 and older and who were vaccinated two or more months ago.
You can access all upcoming booster clinics on the Vaccination page of our website. If you have questions about booster shots, please contact our call center at (410) 479-5880.
There are now booster recommendations for all three available COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received and others may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots. The exception to this is children ages 16 – 17, who may only receive a Pfizer booster.
Available data right now show that all three of the COVID-19 vaccines approved or authorized in the United States continue to be highly effective in reducing risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death, even against the widely circulating Delta variant. Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself and reduce the spread of the virus and help prevent new variants from emerging.