Health & Fitness
Pfizer Booster Shots Available To Eligible Rhode Islanders
Following approval from the Food and Drug Administration, certain high-risk and older Rhode Islanders can get a third dose of the vaccine.
PROVIDENCE, RI — Certain Rhode Islanders can now get a third COVID-19 "booster" shot, the Rhode Island Department of Health announced Friday. Following the latest guidance from the federal government, more Rhode Islanders are now eligible to get an additional dose.
To be eligible for a third dose, the person must have initially received the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months ago. Those who received the Johnson and Johnson or Moderna vaccines cannot receive a booster shot at this time.
Last month, the department authorized boosters for certain immunocompromised individuals. New Friday, the guidance was expanded to include the following people:
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- People aged 65 years or older, or residents or long-term care facilities, regardless of age
- People aged 50 to 64 years old with underlying health conditions
- People aged 18 to 49 years old with underlying health conditions, based on "individual benefits and risks"
- Anyone aged 18 to 64 years old who is at an increased risk of being exposed to or transmitting COVID-19 because of their job or institution
"Rhode Island was well prepared for COVID-19 booster shot administration," Gov Dan McKee said. "I am pleased to see that eligible Rhode Islanders are already stepping up to get their booster shots ... Rhode Island continues to lead the nation in vaccinations and testing and we will continue to lead as we begin administering booster shots."
The new Rhode Island policy follows the latest guidance from the Food and Drug Administration, which approved an additional emergency use authorization for Pfizer's third-dose booster shots. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provided its final guidance on booster shots Friday.
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Eligible Rhode Islanders can now make appointments to get their third vaccine dose. The Department of Health said it expects higher demand for vaccine appointments for the next six weeks.
To make an appointment, visit the department's website or call 844-930-1779, 401-222-8022 or 211.
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