(Toms River) – The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) is now providing the Moderna and J&J COVID-19 vaccine boosters for eligible residents at each of its COVID-19 vaccination clinics throughout the county. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved emergency use authorization (EAU) for each of these vaccines and now will be offered along with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster.
“We knew this news was coming in some form a few weeks back so we’ve been prepared to offer all three of the boosters to Ocean County residents at our COVID-19 and seasonal flu clinics,” said Daniel Regenye, OCHD Public Health Coordinator/Health Officer. “We encourage eligible residents to get their boosters – especially in time for the holiday season.”
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 and older who live in long-term care settings
- Age 18 and older who have underlying medical conditions
- Age 18 and older 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.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also advises that 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. The CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots.
The OCHD 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 as soon as possible.
Regenye added, “We are also looking ahead and expect more news from the CDC regarding a COVID-19 vaccine for children and will keep everyone informed as we learn more. In the meantime, the health department encourages all children from 6 months and up – including adults – to get their seasonal flu vaccine. The vaccines are safe and effective protection for you, your family, and our communities here in Ocean County.”
The OCHD is requesting that residents bring their vaccination records with them when they come to receive their shot. For a schedule of upcoming clinics or to schedule a COVID-19 appointment, visit www.ochd.org.
Additional booster information and guidance can be found at:
https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/p1021-covid-booster.html
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