December 07, 2021

Health Officials Urge Booster Shots for Older Americans to Combat Omicron Variant

Officials are preparing for another possible surge in COVID-19 infections now that the Omicron variant is circulating and colder winter months approach. President Biden has said that the new variant is a cause for concern but not alarm and health experts still cite vaccination as the best way to protect oneself from the disease.

Scientists have found that the COVID-19 vaccines lose efficacy over time, and all Americans who were vaccinated more than 6 months ago should receive an additional booster shot.

Over 25 percent of Americans over the age of 65 have received their booster dose, and nearly two million of those recipients got their booster within the past 14 days. The vaccines are most effective in protecting seniors and other individuals at high-risk for severe COVID-19 infection. With booster shots now available for all adults, seniors can receive an added layer of protection against Omicron and other variants of COVID-19.

There are many ways to find vaccine/booster providers in the United States. You can visit vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829 or call 1-800-232-0233 to find the closest vaccination site near you.

“We encourage seniors to take the advice of the CDC and their physicians,” said Richard Fiesta, executive director of the Alliance. “In the face of an ever-changing pandemic, boosters can provide an added layer of protection for everyone.”