The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation has expanded access to COVID-19 booster shots. Previously, only people who had received their second Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine more than six months ago were eligible for a booster with the same vaccine.
Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized booster shots for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. It also approved people mixing vaccines, allowing people to receive a different booster than their initial doses.
Under the new regulations, everyone age 18 and older who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccine just two months ago or longer is eligible for a booster shot.
Anyone who received a Moderna or Pfizer vaccine more than six months ago is also eligible for a booster shot if they meet the following criteria: are 65 or older, are Alaska Native and age 18 or older, are a health care worker, have a job that requires interaction with the public, or have a health condition that could be made dangerous by a COVID-19 infection.
There are many ways to get a booster dose. If you’re in a village, YKHC asks that you complete this online form to request a shot: https://tinyurl.com/8kb9vth.
If you’re in Bethel:
- You can receive a Pfizer vaccine on the second floor of the YKHC hospital at the Wellness Center between 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. or 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Moderna vaccines are available at the Wellness Center between 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.
- You can call 907-543-6949 to schedule an appointment for Pfizer, Moderna, or a Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
