The CDC released their recommendation on Tuesday, September 12 for updated COVID-19 Vaccine for the Fall/Winter Virus Season. CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against the potentially serious outcomes of COVID-19 illness. Receiving an updated COVID-19 vaccine can restore protection and provide enhanced protection against the variants currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States.

Where can I get the COVID-19 vaccine? 

Find a COVID-19 vaccine

You can filter by location, type of vaccine, manufacturer, and more.

In-home COVID vaccines

People can register by calling 833-983-0485 or scheduling online at patientportalma.com

Can children get a COVID vaccine?

Children ages 6 months and older are able to get an age-appropriate dose of COVID-19 vaccine. 

CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/planning/children.html

Massachusetts Department of Public Health: https://www.mass.gov/covid-19-vaccine

What is the current recommendation for COVID-19 vaccine booster doses?

CDC recommends everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccination, including all primary series doses and boosters for their age group.

Find out which vaccines you are eligible for

• People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised have different recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters.
• COVID-19 vaccine and booster recommendations may be updated as CDC continues to monitor the latest data.

Should my booster be the same vaccine I got before or can I "mix and match"?

Individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may want to get the vaccine they originally received and others may prefer to get a different booster. The CDC's recommendations now allow for this type of "mix and match" dosing for booster shots.

What is the difference between a booster and a third dose?

We know that the difference between booster shots and a third dose can be a little confusing. A booster shot and a third dose are not the same. A third dose is recommended for people who got either the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines and have compromised immune systems. This is because they may not have gotten the level of protection they needed from the first two doses. The third dose provides more immunity. It completes their primary vaccine series. Boosters are an extra dose of vaccine meant to boost a patient's immune system because of decreased immunity over time.

After having COVID-19, how long do I need to wait to get a booster?

You should wait until your 10-day period of isolation is over and any symptoms have improved.  This to ensure that you don’t spread COVID-19 to others. Some may consider waiting three (3) months after symptom onset or positive test before receiving a booster. Talk with your healthcare provider about what is best for you.

How can I access my vaccination records?

This tool is available for residents so they can use a digital vaccine card to demonstrate proof of COVID vaccination if they choose. If you want to access your digital COVID vaccine card through your vaccine provider or through another method, visit: www.mass.gov/myvaxrecord.

Can I get a flu shot at the same time as my COVID booster?

Yes, you can get the COVID-19 vaccine any time even if you recently received a flu vaccine. You can even get them both on the same day. If you have questions about COVID-19 vaccines, please speak with your doctor.

You can find more information on boosters on the state's website here. Speak to your health care provider if you have questions about whether a booster shot/third dose is appropriate for you.

In order to locate a convenient site for getting a COVID-19 vaccine:

• Visit vaxfinder.mass.gov for a full list of hundreds of locations to receive a booster.
• In-home vaccinations are available for anyone who has difficulty getting to or using a community vaccination location. 
  • Please call the In-Home Vaccination Central Intake Line at (833) 983-0485 M-F 9am-5pm
  • Available in English and Spanish and has translators available in approximately 100 additional languages.
  •  You may also schedule an appointment directly on the CDR Health Patient Portal page at patientportalma.com

How can people who don't use a computer make an appointment?

If you don’t use a computer or don't have friends/family who can help, please call 2-1-1 for assistance.

How can I get Newton vaccine updates?

Check this website frequently or contact our office. You also may consider subscribing to the Mayor's Newsletter, or if you're a senior, to the Senior Center Newsletter: www.newtonma.gov/newsletters