Benton Harbor, Michigan, December 17, 2021 – In response to new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Berrien County Health Department is now offering Pfizer COVID-19 booster doses for residents ages 16-17.

Individuals are eligible for the Pfizer booster six months after they complete the primary two-dose vaccine series. It is recommended teens who received the Pfizer vaccine series stay consistent and receive the Pfizer booster. Individuals 18 and older may receive any U.S.-approved booster.

Acting Health Officer Guy Miller

“We encourage residents who are 16 or 17 and eligible for a Pfizer booster to get one. The COVID-19 vaccines are critical in slowing the spread of the virus, reducing the severity of symptoms and keeping patients out of the hospital.”

The Berrien County Health Department offers regular and booster doses for ages 12 and older during a walk-in clinic 3-6 p.m. Tuesdays at its Benton Harbor office. Individuals ages 16-17 need written parental consent or a parent or guardian present, and anyone younger than 16 must have a parent or guardian present. All are asked to bring their vaccination record to the clinic. 

COVID-19 vaccine appointments are available for children ages 5-11. To schedule an appointment, visit bchdmi.org/covid19.

Community members who have questions about COVID-19 and the vaccines are encouraged to call BCHD’s hotline toll-free at 800.815.5485 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

For more information about BCHD’s COVID-19 response and vaccine clinics, visit bchdmi.org/covid19.