COVID and the holidays; Boosters for adults
Dear Patient,
Maine is currently experiencing record numbers of COVID cases and hospitalizations.
In response to this increase in cases, Governor Janet Mills and the Maine CDC have expanded eligibility for the COVID vaccine booster to include all adults.
To be eligible for the booster:
- You must be 18 years or older.
- You received your second dose of Moderna or Pfizer at least 6 months ago, or a Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine at least 2 months ago.
Scheduling your booster appointment
To schedule your booster, visit our online scheduling page. This is the best and most efficient way to book your appointment.
Please be aware that demand for appointments at our Vaccine Clinic is extremely high, and we are scheduling vaccination appointments into mid-December. If you are unable to find an appointment that fits your schedule, we encourage you to look at other vaccine options in the community, such as a local pharmacy. If you get your booster at another facility, please inform us through the patient portal.
View vaccination sites in Maine.
Click here to schedule your COVID booster
Holidays and family
The holiday season begins in a few days, and many of you are wondering if you can safely celebrate with friends and family.
- If you are not fully vaccinated, the CDC recommends delaying travel.
- Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
- If you are sick or have symptoms, do not host or attend a gathering.
- Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID or have a close contact with someone who has COVID.
Gathering outdoor is safer than indoors, but if the chilly Maine weather drives you inside:
- Limit the size of your gathering.
- Improve ventilation by keeping doors and windows open or running a window fan. This can help keep virus particles from accumulating inside.
- Continue to mask when in public indoor settings in communities with substantial to high transmission. All Maine counties have substantial or high transmission levels.
It is important to protect those who are unvaccinated or at risk of serious illness from COVID, such as people with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. These people, as well as those around them, should wear a mask whenever gathering indoors.
The vaccine remains our best route out of this pandemic. Speak with your physician if you have questions or concerns.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season,
Dr. Dan Loiselle, Chief Medical Officer, and the entire InterMed care team