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COVID-19 Boosters

Posted on: October 26, 2021 - 4:35pm
covid-19 booster

~UPDATED AS OF 10/25/21~

COVID-19 vaccines are effective at protecting you from COVID-19, especially severe illness and death. COVID-19 vaccines also reduce the risk of people spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. The East Hartford Health Department recommends everyone age 12 and up receive their primary series (i.e., the first 2 doses of a COVID-19 vaccine) of the COVID-19 vaccine. Getting initial doses of vaccines in arms throughout East Hartford remains our best shot at controlling the pandemic. 

Studies show that after getting vaccinated against COVID-19, protection against the virus may decrease over time and be less able to protect against the Delta variant. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization (ACIP) has expanded its recommendations related to booster doses. The Town of East Hartford Health Department encourages all residents to review these recommendations and make a plan to receive a booster if they are eligible and want to. Based on the latest data and evidence, the Health Department stresses that these booster shots are safe and effective.

Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may have a preference for the vaccine type that they originally received and others may prefer to get a different booster. CDC’s recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots. All three vaccine types are safe and effective, but individuals with questions about which vaccine to receive should consult with their primary care physicians.

What You Need to Know about Boosters

Who?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that the following groups receive a booster shot:

If you received a Pfizer or Moderna series:

If you received a Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine:

  • Age 18+

When?

  • At least 6 months after Pfizer or Moderna
  • At least 2 months after Johnson & Johnson

Which booster shot do I get?

  • You may have a preference, but you can get any booster shot. CDC's recommendations now allow for getting a different vaccine for your booster than you had for your initial series.
  • If you have questions regarding whether you should stick with the same vaccine you received for your primary series or switch it up, talk to your healthcare provider or contact the East Hartford Health Department at 860-291-7324.

*Occupations at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission include front line essential workers and health care workers as previously detailed by the CDC (this list may be expanded in the future):

  • First responders (healthcare workers, firefighters, police, congregate care staff)
  • Education staff (teachers, support staff, daycare workers)
  • Food and agriculture workers
  • Manufacturing workers
  • Corrections workers
  • U.S. Postal Service workers
  • Public transit workers
  • Grocery store workers

Where Can I get a Booster Dose?

Click here to view upcoming clinic dates within the town of East Hartford. To schedule an appointment with the East Hartford Health Department, please call us at 860-291-7324.

You can also search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233 to find locations near you.

For more information regarding data supporting the need for a booster shot and frequently asked questions, visit the CDC website. The East Hartford Health Department encourages people to consult with their healthcare provider about which booster shot is appropriate for them. To schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment or speak to a public health nurse, contact the Health Department at 860-291-7324.