Today, Governor Larry Hogan announced revised COVID-19 vaccine booster eligibility requirements following new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). State health officials are encouraging anyone with an underlying health condition or comorbidity to get a booster shot as soon as possible.
Governor Hogan said the following in a press release:
“From day one of this crisis, our focus has always been on preventing hospitalizations and deaths, and these vaccines have all proven to be extremely effective at this,” said Governor Hogan. “However, the data we now have clearly does show that the level of protection does begin to wane over time, beginning after five or six months, especially for those who are immunocompromised, have comorbidities, and are most vulnerable. State health officials have issued an advisory strongly urging people with comorbidities to get a booster dose as soon as possible.”
The CDC recently revised nationwide booster eligibility, stating, “Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose.” The CDC recommends boosters for the following groups:
- 65 years and older
- Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
- Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
- Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings
The state’s new guidance now mirrors the CDC’s recommendations. To determine COVID-19 vaccine booster eligibility in Maryland, please visit covidvax.maryland.gov.
