HOT SPRINGS — Boosters for Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines are now available. BCH will begin administering the Moderna vaccine booster at Bath Community Pharmacy today.
Individuals may choose a Moderna vaccine booster regardless of which vaccine was received initially.
On Oct. 20, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration expanded the use of a booster dose for COVID-19 vaccines in eligible populations. The agency is amending the emergency use authorizations for COVID-19 vaccines to allow for the use of a single booster dose may be administered at least six months after completion of the primary series to individuals:
• 65 years of age and older.
• 18 through 64 years of age at high risk of severe COVID-19.
• 18 through 64 years of age with frequent institutional or occupational exposure to SARSCoV-2.
Currently, the CDC is recommending that moderately to severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose. This includes people who have:
• Been receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood.
• Received an organ transplant and are taking medicine to suppress the immune system.
• Received a stem cell transplant within the last two years or are taking medication to suppress the immune system.
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (such as DiGeorge syndrome, WiskottAldrich syndrome).
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection.
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids or other drugs that may suppress your immune response.
People should speak to their healthcare provider about their medical condition and whether getting an additional dose is appropriate.
All Moderna vaccinations to include first, second, third/additional vaccination, and the booster will be offered on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Appointments are required. Contact Bath Community Pharmacy at (540) 839-7350 to schedule a booster or begin a series of COVID-19 vaccinations. Persons are being asked to Be sure to bring a vaccination card, insurance card, and Medicare Part B Card if they are over the age of 65.
Bath Community Hospital plans to host a community vaccination clinic. Dates and more information will be released soon.
The CDC recommends getting a flu shot annually to reduce the risk of serious illness from influenza, including hospitalization. Bath Community Pharmacy is offering walk-in flu shots Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
To prevent the spread of both COVID-19 and the flu:
• Get vaccinated.
• Wash your hands often with plain soap and water.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Avoid crowds and practice social distancing (stay at least 6 feet apart from others).
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