Moderna, Johnson & Johnson Booster Shots Now Available In PA After Federal Approval

PENNSYLVANIA — Booster shots for the Johnson & Johnson and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines have been approved for qualified adults by the federal government and will now be distributed in Pennsylvania, health officials announced Friday.

Booster shots for the Pfizer vaccine were approved back in September.

All individuals 65 and older qualify for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters. All adults who are in long term care facilities, have serious underlying medical conditions, or who work in a high risk setting also qualify.

“Vaccine providers across Pennsylvania have supplies of all three safe and effective vaccines ready to administer booster shots today to those who are eligible,” Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam said in a statement Friday. “I am impressed by the tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians who are stepping up every day to get their first, second or third dose of vaccine to protect themselves, their loved ones and their neighbors against COVID-19."

Regardless of which vaccine you received for your first shot or shots, you can receive any brand for the booster shot, federal officials determined.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health called the approval process for the booster shots "in-depth."

“These vaccines remain our best strategy to stop the spread of COVID-19,” Beam added. “If you are fully vaccinated you still have protection. Getting a booster dose will increase your level of defense.

The state has made numerous preparations for the influx of residents to receive booster shots. Beam signed an order in September to make sure that vaccine providers were ready to handle the appointment load. Appointments are available now in Pennsylvania; find one at Vaccines.gov.

Officials are confident there is enough vaccine for all residents.