COVID-19 Booster Shots Now Authorized for Moderna and J&J Vaccines

Walmart and Sam's Club pharmacies are preparing to administer COVID-19 booster shots, now authorized for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) vaccines, following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) announcement. As the initial COVID-19 vaccines become less effective over time, booster shots are seen as a way to "boost" protection, especially in at-risk populations. People aged 65 and older, as well as those 18 to 64 years old with high-risk conditions, are eligible for the Moderna and Pfizer booster shots, while J&J vaccine recipients can receive a single booster shot two months after their initial dose.

Key Takeaways:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has authorized booster shots for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccines.
• The booster shots are designed to restore protection against COVID-19, which can decrease over time.
• Eligibility requirements for the Moderna and Pfizer booster shots include:

+ Individuals 65 years of age and older

+ Individuals 18 to 64 years of age with high-risk conditions

+ Individuals 18 to 64 years of age at high risk for severe COVID-19

+ Individuals 18 to 64 years of age with frequent institutional or occupational exposure to COVID-19

• J&J vaccine recipients are eligible for a single booster shot two months after their initial dose.
• Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine became eligible as a booster in September.

Statistics:

• The CDC has authorized booster shots for Moderna and J&J COVID-19 vaccines.
• The Moderna and Pfizer booster shots are authorized for individuals 65 years of age and older and those 18 to 64 years old with high-risk conditions.
• The J&J booster shot is open to individuals 18 years of age and older.

Sources:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Walmart press release (no date provided)
• "COVID-19 Vaccines and You: A Guide to COVID-19 Vaccination"