The FDA and the CDC both recommend booster doses for all Americans ages 18 and older, provided that at least six months have passed since receiving their two-dose Pfizer/Moderna vaccine series or that at least two months have passed since receiving their one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
West Virginians can go to any location offering COVID-19 vaccines with their vaccination card to receive their booster.
If a vaccination card has been lost, residents can request a new one from the DHHR.
Gov. Jim Justice and members of the West Virginia COVID-19 pandemic response leadership team held another news briefing to update the public on the State’s latest pandemic response efforts.
During last Thursday’s briefing, Gov. Justice discussed how impending cold weather will increase the importance of being vaccinated and receiving a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Because cold weather often forces people to spend more time indoors, specifically during the busy holiday season, the state is likely to continue experiencing an increase in COVID-19 case numbers, said state health officials. This increase will place an even greater strain on hospitals and ICU units across West Virginia.
Gov. Justice said vaccine manufacturer Pfizer has reported that lab tests show a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine increased by 25-fold people’s levels of antibodies capable of fighting off omicron variant, a new strain of COVID-19.
“There can’t be anything more important in your life right now than getting the booster shot,” said Gov. Justice. “What in the world are you waiting for? Absolutely without any question you need to get your booster shot now.”
Gov. Justice is urging all West Virginians, especially those over the age of 50 to get their booster shot as soon as possible.
Locally, booster shots are available at Walgreens, the Morgan County Health Department and other medical providers who offer the COVID vaccine.
