Feds Approve Covid Booster Shots for Nursing Home Residents & Workers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) released the following statement in response to the recommendations by the CDC as well as the FDA to approve booster shots of the Moderna and J&J COVID-19 vaccines for certain individuals, including residents and health care workers in long term care.

The following statement is attributable to Dr. David Gifford, chief medical officer of AHCA/NCAL:

“Once again, we appreciate the FDA and CDC for thoroughly examining the data and following the science to help protect Americans, including our nation’s most vulnerable, from COVID-19. All long term care residents and staff members will now be eligible to receive a booster shot thanks to these expanded recommendations. Additionally, the ability to mix-and-match vaccines for the booster dose will make it easier for long term care facilities to swiftly access these vaccines for their residents and staff. 

“The rollout of the Pfizer booster shot has gone incredibly well in long term care, and we are confident that adding Moderna and Johnson and Johnson into the mix will catapult our efforts. We appreciate the partnership of federal and state governments as well as long term care pharmacies and other vaccine providers to make these vaccination efforts in nursing homes and assisted living communities efficient and successful.”