COVID-19-related cases and hospitalization rates continue to rise in our area. We strongly encourage all fully vaccinated individuals age 16 and older to receive a COVID-19 booster shot to protect themselves and prevent a COVID-19 surge this winter.
You are eligible for a booster if it has been at least six months since you got your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or if it has been at least two months since you got a shot of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
I’m already vaccinated. Why do I need a booster shot?
Although COVID-19 vaccines remain effective in preventing severe cases and hospitalizations, recent data has suggested that the vaccines become less effective over time. Getting a booster substantially increases your body’s protection against COVID-19, including against the delta and omicron variants.
Which booster shot should I get?
You have choices in what type of booster shot to get, but all of them will give you greater protection from the new omicron variant as our region faces another surge. Read the CDC’s guide for information about booster eligibility and choosing a type of shot.
Where can I get my booster?
Boosters are readily available at local pharmacies, and we encourage you to get vaccinated at a convenient location near you. Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health is administering booster shots by appointment at a limited number of vaccine locations across our region as well.
If you have yet to receive your first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, it is important that you do so as soon as possible. Being vaccinated will reduce your chances of getting a severe case of COVID-19 and protect those around you.
Please note that all patients, visitors and staff must wear a surgical, procedural or N95/KN95 mask in any Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health hospital, ambulatory, outpatient or office location. Cloth masks will no longer be allowed as the sole face covering in any LG Health facility. In addition, masks with exhalation valves, gaiters, bandanas, scarves and gas masks will not be permitted. People who do not have a surgical face mask will be provided with one. This applies regardless of vaccination status.
Michael R. Ripchinski, MD, MBA, CPE, FAAFP
Chief Clinical Officer, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health
T. Raymond Foley, MD
President, Lancaster General Health Physicians