The new Federal Drug Administration (FDA)-approved bivalent booster is now available to VUMC Faculty and Staff! But what is the bivalent COVID-19 booster? Why do you need it? Where can you get the vaccine? We’re breaking down your most pressing questions.
- What is the bivalent COVID-19 booster?
Bivalent vaccines have mRNA components that work against the original strain of COVID-19 as well as two of the more common Omicron strains circulating now. In other words, this booster vaccine not only protects you against the original strain of COVID-19 but also against the omicron strains, which are the main strains currently spreading.
- Who is eligible to receive it?
You are eligible for the updated booster if you are 12 years or older and it has been at least two months since the final dose of your primary series or last booster. In addition, it’s safe to get the updated booster at the same time as other vaccines, such as the flu shot.
- Where can I get the booster shot?
There are several locations where you can receive your booster!
- Occupational Health Clinic located on the sixth floor of the Medical Arts Building, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. No appointment is needed.
- One Hundred Oaks mass vaccination site, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. No appointment necessary for employees needing the bivalent booster.
- Located at 719 Thompson Lane on the third floor of the north end of the building. (The closest entrance is the ‘E’ entrance nearest Guitar Center & Ashley Furniture stores).
- Regional hospitals and clinics including Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital, Vanderbilt Bedford County Hospital (Moderna only), Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital, Vanderbilt Health Hendersonville Primary Care and Vanderbilt Children’s Primary Care in Smyrna.
- As a VUMC employee, when should I get my booster?
We encourage you to get your booster as soon as you are eligible. All VUMC eligible employees are asked to get the booster vaccine, voluntarily submit documentation, or request an exemption through Occupational Health by Jan. 15, 2023.
Protect yourself and others by getting your bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine. For more information around COVID-19, please visit the Employee COVID-19 Vaccine Information website.
