City Recommends COVID-19 Boosters Going into Holiday Season

The City of Albuquerque is encouraging COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters for those who are eligible. Science is demonstrating that boosters are needed to maintain the highest level of protection against COVID-19. All adults aged 18+ are eligible to receive booster doses for Pfizer or Moderna if they were fully vaccinated over 6 months ago, and Johnson & Johnson boosters if they received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine two or more months ago. Any of the COVID-19 vaccines can be used for booster vaccination, regardless of the vaccine product used for primary vaccination.

Children ages 5 and over can receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Parents are encouraged to register their eligible children as soon as possible to prevent infection and spread over the holidays.

“We’re approaching the first holiday season in the pandemic when vaccines are widely available for almost the entire family,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “COVID transmission remains high, and the best way to protect yourself and your family is to be fully vaccinated. Now, with children eligible for the vaccine and boosters available, more families can feel safer gathering for the holidays.”

Virtual gatherings remain the safest way to connect with family and friends during the holidays. If you gather with people who don’t live in the same household, gatherings and activities held outdoors are safer than indoor gatherings. Vaccination, mask wearing, good ventilation, and frequent handwashing are the best way to protect yourself and others for gatherings.

Vaccines are still widely available in Albuquerque, to find a vaccine and schedule an appointment, visit vaccineNM.org.