Older Adults Can Now Receive Second Dose of Current COVID-19 Vaccine

Published on March 11, 2024

CDC Updates Respiratory Virus Guidance

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) today announced that older adults can now receive a second dose of the current COVID-19 vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently approved the second dose recommendation for this age group. 

Adults age 65 and over can receive the second dose at least four months after their first dose of the current vaccine, which was released in September 2023.

“Older adults are more likely to experience severe illness from COVID-19. A second dose of this season’s COVID-19 vaccine will help restore protection that has waned since fall,” said Pat Lopez, Health Director.

According to the CDC, people with weakened immune systems may also get additional doses of the current vaccine and the CDC recommends that everyone 6 months to 64 years receive one dose.

COVID-19 vaccine is available through many local pharmacies and some health care providers. Visit vaccines.gov to find pharmacy locations.

CDC releases updated respiratory virus guidance

The CDC also released updated respiratory virus guidance, which includes a shortened isolation time. The updated guidance recommends that people stay home and away from others until at least 24 hours after both symptoms are getting better overall and fever is gone without using fever-reducing medication. 

Once people return to normal activities, they’re encouraged to take additional precautions over the next five days:

  • Enhance hygiene practices – Wash hands frequently. Cover coughs and sneezes. Clean frequently touched surfaces.
  • Wear a well-fitting mask.
  • Keep distance from others.
  • Take a test – Testing can help people make decisions to further protect themselves and others. At-home COVID-19 test kits remain available in the main lobby of the Health Department during regular business hours. Test kits are also available at all Lincoln City Library locations. 
  • Take steps for cleaner air – Bring in fresh air from outside, purify indoor air or gather outdoors.

CDC’s Updated Respiratory Virus Guidance is available at https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/guidance/respiratory-virus-guidance.html 

Additional respiratory virus resources available at lincoln.ne.gov/health include:

  • COVID-19 Dashboard – This dashboard contains the latest data on cases, testing, wastewater surveillance, deaths and vaccination.
  • Respiratory Illness Dashboard – This dashboard tracks the level of respiratory illnesses in the community.
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