New booster recommendations

Federal health officials have now authorized Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 booster shots. According to CDC guidance, Minnesotans who got the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine can now get a booster at least six months after their initial series if they are:

• • 65 years and older
  • Age 18+ and live in long-term care settings
  • Age 18+ and have certain medical conditions
  • Age 18+ and work or live in high-risk settings

All Minnesotans age 18 and older who got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are recommended to get a booster shot at least two months after their initial vaccine.

Officials also authorized 'mixing and matching' COVID-19 vaccine boosters, meaning anybody who is eligible to get a booster shot can get any of the three currently authorized or approved vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson) – regardless of what product they received for their primary series.

Minnesotans with an underlying medical condition may feel a booster is right for them. Minnesotans who live or work in a setting that increases their risk of being exposed to COVID-19 (e.g., frontline medical workers, educators, and childcare personnel) may also want to get a booster.

At Mille Lacs Health System, you can register for your Pfizer booster at one of MLHS’s bi-weekly community vaccination clinics by visiting our vaccine information page here: https://www.mlhealth.org/patients-visitors/covid-19-vaccine-information

You may also get your Pfizer shot at a scheduled nurse visit or other provider visit, but only at the Onamia clinic. Those people needing the Johnson & Johnson vaccine or boosters may get those at the Isle clinic only. Appointments or registration must be made prior to receiving the shot. Mille Lacs County is handling Moderna vaccines/boosters. Visit https://www.millelacs.mn.gov/ to register there.