More boosters available to county residents

Effective Oct 25, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters are available in Madera County at all COVID-19 vaccine clinics.

Pfizer boosters continue to be available. Fully vaccinated people continue to have effective protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. COVID-19 booster doses are meant to boost immunity that may have waned overtime.

While not everyone needs a COVID-19 booster, it is recommended for some people.

“Based on what we’ve seen in terms of decreased immunity, it is recommended that those individuals who are at highest risk of hospitalization or death receive a booster dose,” said Madera County Health Officer, Dr. Simon Paul following the announcement.

Individuals who are 65 years old or older, those 18 years old or older living in a long-term care setting, those with an underlying medical condition, or those who work or live in a high-risk setting are eligible for a Moderna or Pfizer booster six months after receiving their second dose. Individuals who are 18 years old or older are eligible for a Johnson & Johnson booster two months after their first dose. Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose even if it is different from the initial vaccine they received.

Vaccines, including booster doses, are available at the Madera County Social Services and Public Health Campus Tuesday-Friday from 12-7 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m.-3 pm. To make an appointment visit https://MyTurn.CA.gov. For more information about the booster visit the Madera County vaccine webpage at www.maderacounty.com/covid19vaccine or call 311.