Pfizer booster now recommended for 16-year-olds and up

SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash., December 10, 2021 – Following announcements by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Pfizer boosters are now recommended for everyone 16-17 years of age who received their second dose of Pfizer at least six months ago.

In addition, everyone 18 and older is recommended to get a booster dose:

Six months after receiving the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or
Two months after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

According to the CDC, initial data suggests COVID-19 boosters help broaden and strengthen the protection against omicron and other variants. The FDA also analyzed the immune response data from approximately 200 participants, 18 through 55 years of age, who received a single booster dose approximately six months after their second dose.

They found that the antibody response against the SARS-CoV-2 virus one month after a booster dose of the vaccine, when compared to the response one month after the two-dose primary series in the same individuals, demonstrated a booster response. Based on the available data for individuals 18 and older regarding effectiveness, the FDA has concluded that these data support extending the eligible booster age population to 16- and 17-year-olds.

In Snohomish County, more than 125,000 people have received an additional dose, which includes both boosters and third doses. Boosters can be mixed and matched, which means adults can get any COVID-19 vaccine available. However, Pfizer is currently the only vaccine authorized for people ages 16 and 17.

“This recommendation is one more tool to help us protect our community against COVID-19,” said Dr. Chris Spitters, Health Officer for the Snohomish Health District. “For those who got their second Moderna or Pfizer shot at least six months ago, or their Johnson & Johnson shot at least two months ago, now’s the time to get your booster dose.”

For more information about the COVID vaccine, including where to find a clinic near you, visit www.snohd.org/covidvaccine.

DISTRICT VACCINE AND TESTING CLINIC SCHEDULE

In response to growing demand, the Health District has an additional day of vaccination appointments available for those 12+ at the Ash Way Park & Ride site. It is now open Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though all appointments are booked through Dec. 22. Additional appointments for future weeks will be available soon at www.snohd.org/drivethru.

The full schedule for next week is as follows:

Testing at Everett site located at 3715 Oakes Avenue – Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Ash Way Park & Ride location at 16327 Ash Way in Lynnwood offers vaccines Wednesdays through Fridays. Testing is also available Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments for testing are available at www.snohd.org/testing and vaccine appointments at www.snohd.org/drivethru.

Those without internet access, needing language assistance, or requiring additional support in scheduling can reach the Health District’s call center at 425.339.5278 to schedule a testing or vaccine appointment. Callers after hours or on holidays or weekends can leave a message, which will be returned on the next business day.

Content Source: Snohomish Health District press release