INDIANA —The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is updating its recommendations to allow certain immunocompromised individuals and people over the age of 50 who received an initial booster dose at least 4 months ago to be eligible for another mRNA booster to increase their protection against severe disease from COVID-19. Separately and in addition, based on newly published data, adults who received a primary vaccine and booster dose of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 vaccine at least 4 months ago may now receive a second booster dose using an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.
These updated recommendations acknowledge the increased risk of severe disease in certain populations including those who are elderly or over the age of 50 with multiple underlying conditions, along with the currently available data on vaccine and booster effectiveness.
Individuals should consult with their primary care professionals about their vaccination needs. Marion County is also offering vaccine clinics in various settings, including at library locations where community organizations will administer free vaccination shots.
All three vaccines – Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) – are available. The vaccines are free, and no appointment is needed.
Vaccines at these sites are for ages 12 and older. Vaccines will not be available for children under 12 years of age.
Participating library branches include:
• College Avenue, 4180 N. College Ave. (Tues., Wed., Thurs., and Fri.: 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Sat: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
• East 38th Street, 5420 E. 38th St. (Tues., Wed., Thurs., and Fri.: 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
• Martindale-Brightwood, 2434 N. Sherman D. (Tues., Wed., Thurs., and Fri.: 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Sat.: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)