Everyone ages 5 and older who have completed their primary series is now eligible for a booster dose to further enhance their protection against the COVID-19 virus and its variants.
Today’s recommendation from the federal Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) to expand the Pfizer COVID-19 booster to 5- through 11-year-olds is especially welcome news for parents who are concerned with ensuring their children have the most vital protections against COVID-19.
The 5 through 11 age group is eligible for a booster dose five months after completing their primary series.
With the uptick in cases and hospitalizations, I encourage anyone who is not yet vaccinated to get vaccinated today to help protect yourself, your family, and your community.
Everyone who is eligible for a booster or recommended for a second booster should also get it today for a safer and healthier summer.
The CDC also strengthened its recommendation that those 12 and older who are immunocompromised and those 50 and older should receive a second booster dose at least four months after their first.
Vaccines have proven to be a safe and effective weapon against serious illness, hospitalizations and deaths.
Our vaccination sites are prepared to incorporate this eligibility expansion immediately.
In addition, we continue to work to prepare for the anticipated roll-out of vaccines for those under age 5 once approved.
For parents or anyone looking for more information on the vaccines or treatments or to find a nearby vaccination location, visit covid19.nj.gov.
As a reminder, if you have tested positive for COVID-19, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about antiviral treatments that may be available to you.
NOTE: The NJ Department delivered the following information.