The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released booster shot recommendations for individuals age 18 and older in certain populations. A booster shot is given to individuals when the immune system response to the primary vaccine series has likely decreased over time.
For individuals who received a Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after their initial series:
- Individuals age 65 years and older
- Individuals age 18 and older who live in long-term care settings
- Individuals age 18 and older who have underlying medical conditions
- Individuals age 18 and older who work or live in high-risk settings
The CDC recommends boosters for people age 18+ who received the Janssen/J&J vaccine two or more months ago.
Initial Vaccines, Additional Doses, and Booster Shots
In addition to the COVID-19 initial vaccine, there are additional doses and booster shots. The terms “additional dose” and “booster shot” aren’t interchangeable. Please refer to the following to better understand the differences between the initial vaccine, an additional dose, and a booster shot.
COVID-19 Appointments
Sutter Health Plus covers COVID-19 vaccines for our members, including additional doses or booster shots, even when administered out-of-network. Please note the following about initial vaccine, additional dose, and booster shot appointments:
- Initial Dose Vaccine Appointments: If members have not yet received their initial COVID-19 vaccine series, they can schedule an appointment by phone at 844-987-6115 or book online through My Health Online. Members can also sign up on My Turn, California’s COVID-19 vaccine scheduling portal, for available vaccination appointments.
- Additional Dose Appointments: In accordance with established guidance, Sutter is offering additional doses of Pfizer or Moderna. Eligible individuals can call (844) 987-6115 or sign in to My Health Online to book an additional dose appointment.
- Booster Shot Appointments: Sutter is now scheduling appointments for Pfizer or Moderna booster shots. Eligible individuals can schedule a booster appointment by calling (844) 987-6115 or by checking My Turn for available appointments. Booking through My Health Online is coming soon. For Janssen/J&J booster shots, individuals can check nearby pharmacies or My Turn for available booster vaccine appointments.
Safety Protocols
With the increasing vaccine supply, the total number of eligible Californians fully vaccinated against COVID-19 now tops 72%, according to the state.
To maximize protection from COVID-19 and prevent possibly spreading COVID-19 to others, the CDC still recommends wearing a mask indoors in public settings—regardless of vaccination status.
Additional Resources
For up-to-date information about COVID-19, visit:
- Sutter Health Plus COVID-19 Coverage, Cost and Access to Care for health plan information and FAQs
- Sutter Health COVID-19 Resources for clinical information, a COVID-19 interactive screener, patient information, and more
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for federal guidance, U.S. data tracking, and public health information
- California Department of Public Health for California-specific alerts, data tracking, resources, and guidance
