Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine boosters are available for Knox County residents who qualify

The Knox County Health Department will offer booster doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine beginning Monday.  

Knox County residents who previously received the Pfizer vaccine series at least six months beforehand can receive a booster if they meet one of these qualifications: 

• are 65 and older 
• are residents in long-term care settings age 18 years and older  
• are 18-64 years old with an underlying medical condition  
• are 18-64 years old who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure due to where they work or live, such as health care workers, teachers, first responders, workers/residents in congregate setting  

Those who are eligible can schedule an appointment by calling 865-215-5555.

Get the facts:What we know on COVID-19 booster shot guidelines: CDC's Pfizer approval, who can get it

Those who want a booster must bring their vaccination card to their appointment, but staffers can also look up vaccination records.  

Patients who are unsure about whether to receive a booster should consult with their doctor.

This week, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention panel said Pfizer boosters should be offered to people 65 and older, nursing home residents and those ages 50 to 64 who have risky underlying health problems. 

But CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky decided to make one more recommendation.

She recommended that those 18 to 64 years old who are at increased risk of being exposed to the virus, such as health care workers or essential workers, can get a booster.