Virginia, DC and Maryland leaders urge eligible people to get Covid-19 booster shot

Virginia – After the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the booster shots for older and high-risk Americans, leaders in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia are encouraging those eligible to receive them.

The Pfizer – BioNTech booster shot is recommended for people aged 65 and older, long term care facility residents, people aged 18-64 with underlying medical condition, people with high risk of Covid-19 because of an occupational or institutional setting.

Mayor Muriel Bowser of D.C. says she and DC Health are encouraging people eligible for a booster shot to receive it.

Dr. Danny Avula, Virginia’s State Vaccination Coordinator, said the state is preparing for the rollout by collaborating with pharmacies, healthcare providers, and hospitals.

“VDH is also establishing other vaccination sites to ensure eligible Virginians will be able to access a booster dose when it’s recommended. There is no need to rush to get your booster at six months and one day. VDH will provide information about accessing a booster dose on vaccinate.virginia.gov where you can search for and schedule a booster vaccination appointment,” said Avula.

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan stated on Friday that “this action was long overdue.”

“Maryland has already administered more than 50,000 additional doses, and we have both the supply and the capacity to provide a booster shot to anyone who needs one. We have mobilized a robust network of vaccination providers, including pharmacies, primary care providers, mobile clinics, community health centers, and local health departments,” Hogan added.

Hogan also urged health officials to provide clear instructions to those who got the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccinations, as well as for the federal government to approve vaccines for children aged 5 to 11.

For more information on booster shots in Virginia, click here.