Editor’s Note: The following was provided by Walworth County.

In early September, the CDC approved the first updated COVID-19 booster, which contains variations for both the original COVID-19 virus as well as the Omicron variants. The Pfizer version of this vaccine is available to ages 12 and older and Moderna is available for ages 18 and older. Boosters are only available for those who have completed their primary series
vaccine and had their last booster at least two months ago.

“The updated booster is formulated to better protect against the most recent variants of the COVID-19 virus,” says Public Health Officer Erica Bergstrom. “This represents the first shift into a potentially seasonal COVID-19 booster, similar to what we see with the flu vaccine.”

Updated COVID-19 boosters are widely available at local pharmacies. Visit www.vaccines.gov to schedule an appointment near you. Residents are also encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider about receiving their updated COVID-19 booster at the same time as their annual flu shot.

Additionally, Walworth County Public Health will host two walk-in booster clinics in September:

— September 26, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Community Engagement Center, 1260 W. Main St, Whitewater

— September 28, 2022, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Lake Geneva Middle School, 600 N. Bloomfield Road, Lake Geneva. Enter at outside door O near the cafeteria.

Please note that there may be a limited supply of vaccines at these clinics. Walk-ins are welcome, but if you want to preregister, you can do so at https://vaccinate.wi.gov. Pre-registering is strongly encouraged. Attendees should bring their vaccination cards to be updated. Individuals under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian with them. Questions may be directed to Walworth County Public Health at (262) 741-3200. Additional information can also be found at www.co.walworth.wi.us/896/Vaccine-Information.