Medical experts are looking at whether or not booster shots would be more effective on the new variants. Data from a small clinical trial show that a Pfizer-BioNTech booster shot increased the immune response in trial participants who finished their primary series 5 months earlier. With an increased immune response, people should have improved protection against COVID-19, including the Omicron and Delta variants. The CDC has also approved boosters for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines because recipients could benefit from the additional protection boosters provide.

Booster shots are recommended for those who are:

• 12 and older and completed their primary vaccination series of Pfizer at least 5 months ago
• 18 and older and completed their primary vaccination series of Moderna at least 5 months ago or completed their primary vaccination of Johnson & Johnson at least 2 months ago

 If you are age 12 to 17, you must receive the Pfizer booster as it is the only vaccine approved for this age group. If you are 18 or older, you may choose to receive the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), Moderna or Pfizer booster. Bring your COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card to your appointment.

 Researchers are working to determine the effect of the Omicron variant on transmission, reinfection, disease severity, vaccines and treatment drugs. Vaccination remains the best defense against COVID-19 and the emergence of new variants. To schedule a vaccine appointment please visit https://vaccine.coronavirus.in.gov/en-US/.