Pfizer COVID-19 booster shots available for high-risk groups

To strengthen and extend protections against severe illness, North Carolinians at high risk for serious illness or exposure, and who have been fully vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech (COMINARTY) vaccine for six months or more, can now receive a COVID-19 booster shot.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today announced the Pfizer-BioNTech (COMIRNATY) COVID-19 booster shot is recommended for individuals who have been fully vaccinated for six months or more with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. The CDC’s decision follows the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorization of boosters for certain populations on Sept. 22.

People who are 65 years or older, 18 years or older with underlying medical conditions, or those who work in a high-risk settings, such as healthcare workers, teachers and childcare providers, or food workers, are eligible in North Carolina.

Those eligible can find booster shots at their healthcare provider, pharmacies and other locations where COVID-19 vaccines are available. There is no need for people to go back to the location where they received their original vaccines—most COVID-19 vaccination locations can provide Pfizer boosters. Visit MySpot.nc.gov and check “Pfizer-BioNTech (age 12+)” to search locations and ensure Pfizer is available.

If you have questions about Pfizer COVID-19 boosters, you can join NCDHHS' upcoming Town Hall featuring Dr. Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson, State Health Director and NCDHHS Chief Medical Officer on Monday, Sept. 27, 5:30 to 6 p.m. by dialing (855) 756-7520 and entering 76072# when prompted.

Visit MySpot.nc.gov for more COVID-19 information and updates and to find a vaccine location near you.

NCDHHS encourages everyone 12 and older to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and to continue to practice the 3 Ws – wear a mask, wait six feet apart and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to protect yourself and others.