Pfizer vaccine booster shots available to eligible groups

UPDATE 9/29/21 - A previous version of this press release incorrectly stated "the current booster dose recommendation only applies to people who received the Pfizer vaccine and completed their primary vaccine series (first and second dose for most, three doses for people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised)." Immunocompromised individuals who have received a third dose of an mRNA vaccine are not eligible for a booster dose.

Booster doses are now available to the following people who were vaccinated with the Pfizer vaccine six months after their second dose. 

• People 65 and older should get a booster.
• People living in a long-term care facility should get a booster.
• People 50-64 with underlying medical conditions should get a booster.
• People 18-64 with underlying medical conditions or who are at a higher risk of exposure to COVID-19 due to where they live or work may get a booster.

Eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to seek booster doses at medical offices and local pharmacies, or by calling the COVID-19 Call Center at 541-766-6120. At this week's currently scheduled vaccination clinics, a very limited amount of Pfizer boosters doses will be available to eligible individuals on a first come, first served basis. 

Those seeking booster doses should bring their vaccination card to their appointment and be prepared to self-attest that they meet eligibility guidelines announced late last week. Information about Pfizer booster eligibility is available from the Oregon Health Authority.

Booster doses are free for all and no identification or proof of address is needed. Individuals do not have to live permanently in Oregon to receive this dose. 

The current booster dose recommendation only applies to people who received the Pfizer vaccine and completed their primary vaccine series (first and second dose). Individuals are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after they complete their primary series of COVID-19 vaccines. 

“A booster will provide a meaningful amount of increased protection to many fully vaccinated people who are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease, including those age 65 and older and people living in long-term care settings,” said Benton County Public Health administrator, April Holland. “The provision of boosters does not change the fact that we need more people to be fully vaccinated to reduce the impacts of COVID-19. We urge eligible community members to choose the safe and effective protection that COVID-19 vaccination brings.”