COVID-19 vaccine boosters are now readily available all over California. With the Omicron variant of the virus now affecting people across the country, it’s more important than ever to get your vaccine booster when you are able. This post discusses frequently asked questions and important information to keep in mind when booking your appointment.
Who is Eligible?
In California, everyone ages 18 and older is eligible to receive vaccine boosters. If you received the Pfizer vaccine, anyone 12 years or older can get it. The vaccine booster is free. However, bring your health insurance card and an ID with you. They are not required but will help speed up the appointment process. Don’t forget to bring your vaccine card.
Schedule your vaccine booster shot six months after receiving your second Pfizer or Moderna shot, or two months after receiving the Johnson and Johnson vaccine.
Booking a Vaccine Appointment
One of the easiest ways to book a vaccine appointment is to use the MyTurn.ca.gov website. It shows the closest pharmacies and vaccine sites in your zip code. The website may not include pop-up events where the vaccine is given or every pharmacy that has it. So if you work with a small pharmacy in your neighborhood that isn’t listed on the website, contact them directly. You will find certain places that have vaccine booster shots like:
- Walgreens
- CVS
- Safeway/Albertsons
- Target
- Local government sites administering the vaccine
- Some pharmacies and medical practices
Walk-in appointments may be available depending on where you decide to go. However, it is best to make an appointment. The average time between scheduling and the appointment day is anywhere between 7 and 14 days and can vary based on vaccine type and how far you are willing to travel.
If you need transportation assistance for your vaccine, it can also be arranged through MyTurn.
The vaccine booster shot takes 14 days to be fully effective.
What to Know About Getting Your Vaccine Booster
The COVID-19 pandemic is not over. If you have gotten your COVID-19 vaccine already, it offers you the best protection against the virus so far. But getting a booster will provide you with even better protection against new variants as they arise.
You do not have to get the same booster as your original vaccine shot. But you can if you prefer. Most vaccine sites will ask you what type of shot you prefer to receive.
You should get a vaccine booster shot as soon as you are able, even if you are not out visiting people. By getting a booster, you are helping to protect people who come to visit you. Do not wait for another booster to come out later. While COVID-19 vaccines and boosters do protect against severe illness and death, they do not completely eliminate the risk of contracting the virus.
Don’t forget to wear your mask if you do go out or have people in your home to visit. It is now recommended that you wear an N95, KN95, or KF 94 in place of a cloth face mask.
At Optimal Senior Care Solutions, we do everything possible to help keep our clients in and their families safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic. To learn more about the services we provide and our safety policies, reach out to us today.
