Following the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) authorization for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has approved Moderna and Pfizer’s booster shots for all adults who are fully vaccinated.

Additionally, the CDC approved boosters of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine for all adults who received the single dose shot in October.

According to a press release from the Kern County Public Health Services Department, on November 9 the state took action to to approve booster shots for all adults in California and the MyTurn appointment website was updated to allow all adults to sign up to get a booster.

“CDC ruling not only clarifies eligibility for booster doses, but also provides an opportunity for many vaccinated residents who want the extra layer of protection a booster provides,” says Brynn Carrigan, Director of Kern County Public Health. “Booster doses become especially important as we move into the holiday season, which involves increased gathering and traveling.”

Those who are 18 and older are eligible for a COVID booster shot six months following their second dose of the two-shot Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or two months following their Johnson & Johnson shot. Individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose.

“All COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death,” the Kern County Public Health press release states. “However, certain populations are seeing a slight decrease in vaccine effectiveness against infection. Booster doses of vaccines are very common. They are part of most childhood and adult vaccine series to ensure a person maintains optimal immunity against infection from a disease.”

The side effects from booster doses should be the same mild side effects experienced when receiving the initial vaccine dose. A sore arm at the injection site and mild flu-like symptoms are normal and demonstrate that your body is rebuilding immunity to COVID-19.

To find a vaccination site near you or to make an appointment, visit www.kernpublichealth.com or www.MyTurn.ca.gov.

Kern County Public Health is operating a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the Kern County Fairgrounds from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays. The clinic will be closed November 25 and 26 because of Thanksgiving. Pfizer vaccines are available for ages 5 and older and walk-ins are welcome.