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Sep 08

Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Now Available at Pharmacies, Other Providers

Posted on September 8, 2022 at 10:17 AM by Nancy McCormick

Loudoun County encourages eligible individuals to consider getting a single dose of the new COVID-19 bivalent booster at least two months following a completed primary series or booster vaccination, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The bivalent vaccines, also known as “updated boosters,” contain messenger RNA (mRNA) components of the original strain and the omicron variant. 

The bivalent Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for use as a single booster dose in individuals aged 18 years and older and the bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is authorized for use as a single booster dose in individuals aged 12 years and older. 

Monovalent COVID-19 vaccines (based on the original strain of the virus), whether Moderna, Pfizer, Novavax or Johnson & Johnson Janssen, are no longer authorized as booster doses for individuals aged 12 years and older. 

Where Can I Get a Booster?

The bivalent vaccine booster is now available at many local pharmacies and some private medical offices. To find a provider, go to vaccines.gov. Loudoun County encourages eligible individuals to consider getting the bivalent booster at the same time they receive their annual flu shot. September and October are the best times to get vaccinated for protection throughout the expected winter surge.

For More Information

More information about COVID-19 vaccines and boosters is posted on the CDC’s website. Anyone with questions may call the Health Department's information line at 703-737-8300 or send an email.

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