ODH releases new guidance on COVID-19 booster doses

The Ohio Department of Health has released guidelines to COVID-19 vaccine providers across the state administering booster shots of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

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Boosters shots for the Pfizer vaccine are now available for people who have gone six months past completing their second dose of the vaccine, according to ODH.

ODH released the following guidance regarding who is eligible to get the shot:

• People 65 years and older or residents in long-term care settings should receive a booster shot.
• People ages 50 to 64 with certain underlying medical conditions should receive a booster shot.
• People ages 18 to 49 with certain underlying medical conditions may receive a booster shot based on their individual benefits and risks. The CDC has indicated that this is a determination made by the vaccine recipient, but those eligible are encouraged to talk to their healthcare providers if they have any questions.
• People age 18 and older who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of their job or living in an institutional setting may receive a booster shot based on their individual benefits and risks. The CDC has indicated that this is a determination made by the vaccine recipient.

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“Eligible booster recipients will be asked to attest they have one of the qualifying conditions, but specific proof will not be required,” ODH said in a release.

The state is recommending people allow 2 to 3 weeks to get the booster shot.

Ohioans will be able to check here or call 1-833-427-5634 for the latest eligibility information and to find a vaccine provider near them.

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