Everyone aged 18 years and older who has received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine can now book their free booster dose using BookMyVaccine.nz or by calling the COVID Vaccination Healthline 0800 28 29 26 (8am – 8pm, seven days a week).
Additionally, more than 120,000 doses of the child (paediatric) Pfizer vaccine have been delivered to over 500 vaccination sites around New Zealand as health providers prepare to start immunising 5 to 11-year-old tamariki from today, 17 January.
People who had their second dost more than four months ago can either book an appointment or visit a walk-in clinic for your booster vaccine today. A whānau booking can be made by calling 0800 28 29 26.
Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield says the Ministry of Health recently reduced the interval between the second dose and a booster dose from six months to four months, to help accelerate the rollout and provide greater protection against the Omicron variant of COVID-19.
“We are urging everyone to receive their booster dose as soon as four months has passed following their second dose. Even if it’s been less than four months since your second dose, you can still book ahead to ensure you get the date and time you prefer, once you’re eligible.”
More than 82% of vaccinated New Zealanders will be eligible for a booster by the end of February 2022.
As of 16 January, 752,742 people had received a booster dose. People can check when they are due for a booster by visiting mycovidrecord.nz or if you have one, referring to your purple COVID-19 Vaccine appointment card.
AstraZeneca boosters are also available at least four months after the second dose but require a prescription. Prescriptions can be obtained at the vaccinating AstraZeneca clinic or before the vaccine appointment with a doctor. It is free to visit the doctor for an AstraZeneca booster prescription.
Image credit: United Nations