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CDC director signs off on J&J, Moderna boosters

Virus Outbreak Vaccine Donations
Posted at 5:41 PM, Oct 21, 2021
and last updated 2021-10-21 21:09:55-04

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Director Dr. Rachelle Walensky signed off on a recommendation to offer COVID-19 booster shots from Johnson & Johnson and Moderna.

A vaccine advisory panel for the CDC gave the green light earlier in the day. The committee's recommendation echoed the FDA's authorization.

Those eligible to receive a Moderna booster include anyone 65 and older, adults at risk of severe COVID-19 and those who live or work in an area that puts them at higher risk of contracting the virus.

Adults can receive the Johnson & Johnson booster at least two months after their first shot.

Walensky's authorization also allows people to mix and match vaccines.

“These recommendations are another example of our fundamental commitment to protect as many people as possible from Covid-19,” Dr. Walensky said.

The OK from Walensky was the final step before medical professionals could begin giving the boosters to millions of Americans.