Retailers begin offering Moderna, J&J COVID-19 booster shots

With the FDA authorization, and CDC’s recommendation on booster shots of Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson  COVID-19 vaccines for certain vulnerable groups, retailers have started administering the third shots to eligible patients on Oct. 22.

Walgreens recently announced that eligible individuals can now receive Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine booster shots in stores nationwide. This follows FDA authorization of a Pfizer booster dose on Sept. 24. As part of this new guidance, eligible populations may also choose to receive a dose different from the one they received for their initial series.

[Read more: FDA authorizes Moderna, J&J COVID-19 booster shots, clears mix-and-match brands]

"As new guidance regarding COVID-19 vaccines continues to emerge, our communities are relying on pharmacists for information, support and guidance more than ever. Walgreens pharmacy teams are available to answer questions and make it easy to understand eligibility requirements and access COVID-19 vaccine, whether it’s a first dose or booster shot," said Rina Shah, group vice president pharmacy operations and services, Walgreens.

Hy-Vee also announced that free Moderna and J&J COVID-19 vaccine booster doses are now available at Hy-Vee Pharmacy locations across its eight-state region. The retailer strongly recommended that individuals schedule their COVID-19 vaccination in advance by visiting here.

[Read more: FDA authorizes COVID booster for certain immunocompromised individuals]

CVS Pharmacy also shared plans to administer the Moderna COVID-19 booster shot to eligible populations in select locations. 

"The systems we've built and our deep experience in providing vaccinations allows us to play a leading role in administering booster shots to eligible populations," Troyen A. Brennan, executive vice president and chief medical officer of CVS Health said. "We also remain focused on providing easy and convenient opportunities for the unvaccinated to receive their first doses."

Walmart also shared that Moderna, Pfizer, and J&J COVID-19 booster shots are available at your neighborhood Walmart or Sam’s Club pharmacies, conveniently available by both walk-up and appointment at all locations nationwide.