State to begin administering booster doses to eligible Minnesotans

(ABC 6 News) – Governor Tim Walz announced Friday, following guidance from the CDC Minnesota will start administering COVID-19 booster shots for those who are eligible.

Minnesotans who got the Pfizer vaccine can receive a booster shot at least six months after their initial series based on CDC guidance:

• people 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings should receive a booster;
• people aged 50–64 years with underlying medical conditions should receive a booster;
• people aged 18–49 years with underlying medical conditions may receive a booster; and
• people aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting (e.g. frontline medical workers, teachers, and first responders) may receive a booster.

The list of medical conditions categorized as high-risk by the CDC is available here. Minnesotans with an underlying medical condition are encouraged to speak with their health care provider about whether a booster is right for them.

Federal health experts are still reviewing data from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson and will decide when recipients may be eligible for a booster shot.

“Our administration will always prioritize the health and safety of Minnesotans — and right now that means getting our highest risk Minnesotans booster doses to keep their protection strong against the COVID-19 virus,” said Governor Walz.

“We will begin giving boosters to Minnesotans who are eligible, which will help maximize protection for the most at-risk Minnesotans. We have enough vaccine to administer first, second, and booster doses — and I urge every eligible Minnesotan to take advantage of these easy, safe, and free opportunities to keep yourself best protected against this deadly virus.”

“We need every Minnesotan to do their part to stop the spread of the virus and keep our loved ones safe,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan.

“We have life-saving vaccines and a robust team of providers serving our communities across the state. It is so important to get vaccinated. Get your shot, and for those that are eligible, boosters are available.”