RI to open COVID booster eligibility to those over the age of 18

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- The R.I. Department of Health is encouraging anyone over 18 to get the booster shot within the recommended period of time after their first two shots.

Eligible Rhode Islanders who have received their first two doses of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine are able to get their booster shot at least six months after their second dose. Those who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine are able to get their booster shot at least two months after their dose.

This decision comes before the FDA approves the emergency authorization of the booster shot, but at a time where Rhode Islanders are seeing an increase in transmission of the virus as the colder weather approaches and the holidays near,  especially with the risk of transmission from increase traveling.

Dr. Jim McDonald from the R.I Department of Health spoke to ABC6 regarding the booster shot, saying, “Lets clear up the confusion because the prevalence in Rhode Island is so high really anyone in Rhode Island is going to fall under one of those groups so try not to sit there and decide ‘Do I fit in that group?’, you do”

Dr. McDonald also shared some advice for those traveling or celebrating Thanksgiving with others, “If you’re sick, you should get tested before visiting family or do not go. Make sure your Thanksgiving celebration is ventilated like opening windows to create airflow. Make sure people are fully vaccinated.”

We reached out to the Governors office to see if there is a new policy regarding boosters and allowing everyone over 18 to get the booster shot. A spokesperson for the Governor told ABC6 there is no new policy and that a higher number of R.I. residents may be eligible for the booster because of the higher transmission rate of the virus in the state.