Where to find the new COVID boosters in Conn.
New, updated booster shots that aim to protect against new COVID-19 variants are being recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s the latest round of booster shots for the virus as it continues to linger.
In Connecticut, there were 3,479 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed last week. The number of cases versus tests taken dropped the state below a 10 percent positivty rate to 8.97 percent.
While there was a slight dip, the virus persists here and around the world. Vaccines were initially introduced nearly two years ago and the CDC is now recommending the latest booster shot for people ages 12 and up. Here’s what you need to know.
In Connecticut, there were 3,479 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed last week. The number of cases versus tests taken dropped the state below a 10 percent positivty rate to 8.97 percent.
Do I need a COVID-19 booster?
An updated booster shot is now available from both Pfizer-BioNTech for people ages 12 and up and Moderna for people ages 18 and up. The CDC advises people get the latest round to “better protect against the most recently circulating COVID-19 variant,” according to CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky.
What’s different about this COVID-19 booster?
The latest booster is expected to help with protection against Omicron BA.4 and BA.5. Previous vaccinations and boosters had not yet accounted for those variants. The booster aims to target “variants that are more transmissible and immune-evading.”
Do my kids need a COVID-19 booster?
The Pfizer-BioNTech booster is for those 12 and up while the Moderna version is for those 18 and up. It is expected that in the coming weeks the CDC will recommend updated boosters for younger age groups. Once those are approved, children will be able to receive the boosters.
Where can I get a COVID-19 booster?
CVS and Walgreens did not have boosters available in the initial days that the booster was made available. A scan of their websites, however, show the booster is now readily available at both Walgreens and CVS. Simply visit the company websites and follow the steps to book appointments.
In Connecticut, Community Health Center Inc. also have the vaccine available and appointments can be booked online. The organization has locations in many communities around the state including Stamford, Norwalk, Meriden, Middletown, Danbury, Hartford, among others.
Residents should also check with their local community health centers, including the Fair Haven Community Health Care.