Booster shots are now available for adults who received two doses of the Pfizer COVID vaccine at least six months ago. The Louisiana Department of Health said those who are 65 and older, along with those 18 and older with an underlying health condition, or those who live or work in a high-risk setting are eligible. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says while boosters are significant it’s not the means to an end.
“Boosters are going to be important. More important is going to be continuing to work to get everyone vaccinated,” said Kanter.
The new booster shot guidance for those who received the Pfizer vaccine is effective immediately. In an effort to remove any barriers Kanter said you only need to self-attest for the booster shot and there’s no need for a prescription.
“You still have good protection, you have significantly more than 50% protection, you still have really, really good protection but it does ween a little bit from where it was before,” said Kanter.
Booster guidance differs from the third shot criteria, for those with immunocompromised systems for example cancer or organ transplant recipients, it’s recommended they receive a third shot. Kanter said the booster shot criteria allows a larger number of individuals to receive an extra dose to increase waning efficacy.
“Giving a third dose, in this case, Pfizer, at least six months after you got the initial two doses is safe, is safe. It doesn’t confer undue risk,” said Kanter.
If you have any questions about the booster shot, you are encouraged to call the vaccine hotline at 1-855-453-0774
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