The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded its recommendation for COVID-19 booster shots for all adults on Monday, as the presence of the newer is identified. omicron variant of the coronavirus in more countries.
The agency had previously approved boosters for all adults, but only recommended them for those over 50 or residents of long-term care facilities.
The director of the CDC, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, said that the new recommendation reflects the emergence of the omicron variant, which has not yet been identified in the United States, but that health authorities say will inevitably reach the country.
“All persons 18 years of age and older should receive a booster shot either six months after their initial series from Pfizer or Moderna, or two months after their initial J&J vaccination,” Walensky said in a statement.
The official also encouraged the population that is not feeling well to take a diagnostic test for COVID-19, saying that “an increase in tests will help us to identify omicron quickly.”
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