COVID-19 in Clackamas County

Second Bivalent Booster Dose is Approved for 65+ Year Olds and Immunocompromised

Getting vaccinated gives most people a high level of protection against COVID-19 and can provide added protection for people who already had it. One study showed that, for people who already had COVID-19, those who do not get vaccinated after their recovery are more than twice as likely to get it again.

Bivalent Vaccines Simplified

The current bivalent vaccines of mRNA Moderna and Pfizer (original strain and the Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5) are now available for all doses for 6 months of age and older. These changes include (as of 4/21/23):

• Adults ages 65+ may receive a second bivalent booster dose at least four (4) months following their initial bivalent booster.
• People with certain kinds of immunocompromise may receive a second bivalent booster dose at least two (2) months following their recent vaccine. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Unvaccinated people 6 years of age and older (5 years and older for Pfizer) may receive a single dose of bivalent vaccine rather than multiple doses of the original monovalent vaccines.
• Unvaccinated children 6 months through 5 years of age may receive a two-dose series of the Moderna bivalent vaccine.
• Unvaccinated children 6 months through 4 years of age may receive a three-dose series of the Pfizer bivalent vaccine. (Unvaccinated children 5 years of age and older receive one-dose of Pfizer).
• Children 6 months through 5 years of age who have received one, two or three doses of an original monovalent vaccine may receive a bivalent dose but will vary by age and which vaccines were previously received. Consult our reference table or clinical staff for guidance.

Monovalent Vaccines 

• The monovalent Novavax COVID vaccine remains available as a primary series for people ages 12 and older who are not able or are unwilling to receive an updated mRNA (Moderna or Pfizer) Vaccine.
• A single monovalent booster dose of Novavax is available as a first booster dose onlyfor individuals ages 18 and older who are not able, or are unwilling to receive an updated mRNA vaccine.
• Monovalent (original) mRNA vaccines (Moderna and Pfizer) are NO LONGER authorized for use.

Schedule an appointment for your convenience to guarantee having your requested vaccine. Walk-ins available at clinics, while supplies last. 

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