Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) county health departments are now accepting appointments for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster shot.
The formulation, recently authorized by the FDA, combines the original vaccine with one that specifically targets omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. The updated vaccine is recommended for those 12 and older at least two months after completion of the primary vaccination series or two months after the last booster shot.
“We strongly recommend that anyone eligible should go ahead and receive the updated booster now to provide the best protection against COVID-19 infection and severe complications from COVID-19,” MSDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers said. “There is always the possibility of increased cases as we move into the fall and winter months. Don’t wait to protect yourself.”
As of Tuesday, Mississippi has seen a total of 922,493 cases of COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic. Appointments can be made through covidvaccine.umc.edu or by calling 877-978-6453.
