Statement from New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald on CDC Recommendations for Additional COVID-19 Vaccine for Older Adults

ALBANY, N.Y. (March 4, 2024) – "The New York State Department of Health supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in their recommendation for adults 65 and older to receive an additional updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine dose.

This latest recommendation aligns with the Department in recognizing the increased risk of severe health complications, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 in older adults. The vaccine can protect individuals, as well as prevent the spread of the virus among family and friends, and within the community.

Additional prevention measures include practicing good hygiene, washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating; covering coughs and sneezes; and avoiding close contact with people who are sick."

The updated COVID-19 vaccine is a safe and readily accessible preventative medication, which is covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare. Vaccine locations can be found here.

To read more about the CDC recommendation, visit here.