HARRISBURG, Pa. - Following the approval process by the federal government, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has confirmed that children aged 12 years old and over are now eligible for a Pfizer vaccine booster dose five months after completing their primary series.

The five-month booster interval was updated from the previous authorization of six months, and is applicable to anyone aged 12 years old and over who received the Pfizer vaccine for their primary series.

While anyone aged 18 or over may "mix and match" and receive a vaccine other than Pfizer for their booster dose, children aged 12 to 17 must get Pfizer, as that is the only booster dose approved for those under 18.

"It's great to see booster eligibility expanded and we know providers are ready to offer more protection to Pennsylvanians," said Physician General, Dr. Denise Johnson.

Dr. Johnson added that unvaccinated Pennsylvanians should consider getting vaccinated immediately, and those who are fully vaccinated and eligible for a booster to get one.

In addition, the FDA authorized a third primary Pfizer dose for children aged 5 through 11 who are immunocompromised to be given at least 28 days after the second Pfizer dose.

"The virus is evolving and we need to adapt and follow the science to stay ahead of it. The Omicron variant appears to be slightly more resistant to the primary series of all vaccines," said Acting Secretary of Health, Keara Klinpeter.

Pennsylvania vaccine providers such as pediatricians, primary care physicians, pharmacies and federally qualified health centers are able to schedule booster doses and are ready to administer booster appointments now.