HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Department of Health has announced on Monday that a booster shot of the Pfizer COVID vaccine will be immediately available for certain adults who have received the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago.

The FDA, as well as the CDC approved a booster dose of the Pfizer vaccine for certain adults after six months after the completion of their primary dose. Those who qualify are as follows:

-People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings should receive a booster of the Pfizer vaccine

-People aged 50-64 years with underlying medical conditions should receive a booster of the Pfizer vaccine. 

-People aged 18-49 years with underlying medical conditions may receive a booster of the Pfizer vaccine based on their individual benefits and risks

-People aged 18-64 years who are at an increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may receive a booster of the Pfizer vaccine based on their individual benefits and risks.

Qualifying individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 should contact their health care provider or another trusted health care provider before scheduling an appointment. 

Pennsylvania Department of Health Acting Secretary, Allison Beam signed an order on Tuesday, Sept. 22 to ensure that vaccine providers are prepared to schedule appointments. Patients may need to schedule their appointments in advance.

The dosage and medicine of the Pfizer boosters are the same used in the primary doses.

Qualifying individuals who are interested in scheduling an appointment to receive their boosters can do so here.