After Moderna, J&J Boosters OK, Health Dept. Gives Shots Saturday

EAST HAVEN, CT — Following the approval this week by federal health officials, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccine booster shots will be available from East Shore District Health Department at its Saturday flu and vaccine clinic, according to the health department's health educator Barbara Naclerio.

The J&J booster, which may be given at least two months after the initial one, is authorized for anyone 18 and over.

The Moderna booster, which is a half-dose of the first shot, was approved for anyone 65 and older, or adults at risk of illness or complications because of underlying medical conditions or due to work exposure. The booster can be given at least six months after the two-dose vaccine was first done.

And, it's not necessary to get a booster from the same vaccine already received. For example, a person who is fully vaccinated with Moderna, can get the J&J or Pfizer booster shot, though ESDHD does not provide the Pfizer-BioNTech.

The clinic Saturday also provides the flu vaccine as well as Moderna and Johnson & Johnson for people who as yet are unvaccinated or need their second dose of Moderna.

Also, beginning Nov. 8 though Dec 27, the health department is offering walk-in vaccine clinics every Monday from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

East Shore District Health Department is located at 688 Main St. in Branford.