Montgomery County-operated clinics now administer an additional COVID-19 vaccine booster dose to eligible residents.
“We’re beginning already to make plans for ramping up and accepting people coming in for the second booster dose,” County Executive Marc Elrich said during a media briefing Wednesday.
On Tuesday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized a second booster dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines for those ages 50+ and immunocompromised groups at least four months after they received their first booster of any vaccine, according to a release from the FDA.
Following the action, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated recommendations and said adults who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and booster at least four months ago can get a second booster of either Pfizer or Moderna.
There will likely be a short-term increase in vaccine demand, said Sean O’Donnell, Public Health Emergency Preparedness Manager with County Health and Human Services. He recommended people should try to check for appointments online before going to a county site. Walk-ins will be accommodated based on availability.
