Omicron variant: CDC says ages 18 and up should get booster shot

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday broadened its recommendation for COVID-19 booster shots for all adults as the new omicron variant is identified in more countries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday broadened its recommendation for Coronavirus (COVID-19) booster shots for all adults as the new omicron variant is identified in more countries.

The agency had previously approved boosters for all adults, but only recommended them for those 50 years and older or if they live in a long-term care setting.

CDC Director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky said the new guidance reflects the emergence of the omicron variant, which has not yet been identified in the U.S. but that officials say will inevitably reach the country.

Everyone ages 18 and older should get a booster shot either when they are 6 months after their initial Pfizer or Moderna series or 2 months after their initial J&J vaccine, she said in a statement.

Walensky also encouraged Americans feeling unwell to seek out a COVID-19 test, saying Increased testing will help us identify Omicron quickly.