The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendations last night enabling Moderna and Johnson & Johnson booster doses will further protect all New Jerseyans who have completed an initial vaccine series.
According to the CDC, for individuals who received a Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after their initial series:
- 65 years and older
- Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
- Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
- Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings
The authorization also recommends that everyone ages 18 and older who received a first Johnson & Johnson dose receive a booster dose at least two months after completing the single-dose primary regimen.
In addition, according to the CDC, “Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may prefer 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 New Jersey Department of Health is directing our vaccination partners to begin administering booster doses of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines immediately to those who are eligible.
Booster doses of the Pfizer vaccine are already available for eligible individuals.
With the holidays approaching and the Delta variant continuing to impact the state, we encourage everyone who is eligible to get their booster shots as they consider travel and gatherings for the holiday season.
The Department continues its efforts to vaccinate as many people as possible, especially 12 to 17-year-olds.
Those who have yet to be vaccinated are strongly encouraged to get their first shot today to protect not only themselves but their family and community.
There are over 1,600 vaccination sites open to the public in communities throughout New Jersey – many of which have walk-in availability or extended hours.
To find a site and book an appointment online, visit covid19.nj.gov/finder or call the state’s Vaccine Call Center at 1-855-568-0545.
Individuals who are homebound can reach out directly to their local health department or complete the intake form available at covid19.nj.gov/homeboundvax.
For assistance completing the survey by phone, please contact the call center at 1-855-568-0545.
For more information, visit our homepage at nj.gov/health.