MURPHYSBORO – The Jackson County Health Department is now offering updated COVID-19 vaccines.

The CDC recommends everyone age 5 years or older receive one dose of an updated vaccine, at least two months after their last dose. Updated Covid vaccines more closely target a current strain of the virus which causes COVID-19.

JCHD will carry both Pfizer and Moderna brands for those age 12 years or older and Pfizer brand for those under age 12. However, we do not currently have Moderna in-house, and hope to have that brand available by the end of the week. Calling before your appointment is recommended to ensure the vaccine you want is available.

Children ages 6 months to 5 years may need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccine to be up to date, including at least one dose of updated vaccine, depending on the number of doses they’ve previously received and their age. People age 65 years or older may get one additional dose of COVID-19 vaccine four or more months after the first updated (2023) COVID-19 vaccine. People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get one additional dose of updated COVID-19 vaccine two or more months after the last updated COVID-19 vaccine.

JCHD is providing COVID-19 vaccines to eligible children under the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, and to persons who are uninsured or underinsured under the ‘Bridge Access’ program. JCHD is also administering seasonal flu vaccine, which is recommended for all persons age 6 months or older, and RSV vaccine (Abrexvy) for those age 60 years or older with certain health conditions. Please use these available tools to help protect yourself and your family during this winter’s respiratory virus season.

Vaccination appointments are available weekdays from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., with additional hours until 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Appointments are required and can be made at www.jchdonline.org or by calling 618-684-3143 ext. 150.

Most health insurance plans are accepted, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. Please bring insurance cards and vaccination cards to the appointment. Other locations administering vaccines can be located at www.vaccines.gov. Please be aware this site is updated daily.