COVID-19 Booster Shots Now Available for Ages 12 +

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved booster shots of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines for anyone over 16 who got two doses of the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago and anyone over 18 who got the Moderna shot.

If you’re eligible for a booster shot, you can now get your shot at the Center, at all BMC vaccination clinics, as well as other Massachusetts vaccine clinics and local pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens.

Booster shots at GRMDC and BMC clinics are by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment calling 617-323-4440.

Answers to common questions about what these new recommendations mean are below. If you have other questions, please call your provider.

Can I stop wearing a mask and practicing physical distancing if I get a booster dose?

Even after a booster dose, you should still follow all public health guidance to keep yourself and those around you as safe as possible. This means washing your hands often, avoiding crowds, and wearing a mask when you’re inside public areas. You should also follow all local guidelines about wearing masks, including the Boston indoor mask mandate.

I’m immunocompromised and already got a third vaccine dose. Should I get another booster?

No, if you’ve already gotten a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, you should not get another booster dose.

If you’re immunocompromised and haven’t gotten a third dose, please reach out to your provider.

Do I need a doctor’s note to get a booster dose?

No, you do not need a doctor’s note to get a booster dose. If you book an appointment at a BMC vaccination clinic, you will need to confirm that you’re eligible to get a booster dose. Our staff will also check that you got a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago.

Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu shot at the same time?

Yes, it’s okay to get any dose of your COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as your flu shot. BMC or any another location that gives both COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots can give you both at the same visit.