On Thursday, the FDA updated its emergency use authorizations for both the Pfizer and the Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to authorize an additional dose of the vaccine for individuals with compromised immune systems.

The Webster County Health Department has scheduled its first mass clinic for booster shots on Wednesday.

“The boosters are for individuals who self-report and feel that they have an immune compromised health condition,” said Webster County Health Director Kari Prescott. “If you are a healthy individual, the current guidance is that you should not need a booster at this time.”

The booster shot clinic will be a drive-thru clinic at the department’s building at 723 First Ave. S. Moderna boosters will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., while Pfizer boosters will be available from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Individuals must receive the same brand as their first and second dose of the vaccine, and must have received their second vaccine at least 28 days prior.

-Messenger file photo
The Webster County Health Department delivered 1,770 COVID-19 vaccines at a mass vaccination clinic March 18 inside Crossroads Mall. The Webster County Health Department announced on Monday that it will host a COVID-19 booster shot clinic on Wednesday for the immune compromised.

The booster shots are by appointment only and can be scheduled by calling 515-573-4107 or online at WebsterCountyIA.gov. The appointment schedule will be available until 9 a.m. on Wednesday or until filled. This clinic is only for those receiving a booster shot.

The department will not be asking for verification of an immune compromised health condition, said WCHD Public Information Officer Kelli Bloomquist.

“We are asking Iowans to do the right thing,” she said.

The Health Department will be using vaccines it currently has on hand, so a limited number of booster shots will be available. However, additional vials of both Pfizer and Moderna have been ordered and will be used for future clinics.

“We want to continue to be good stewards of the vaccine,” Prescott said. “We don’t want to waste any doses. If you have an appointment scheduled, please keep your appointment or call us ahead of time.”

-Messenger file photo
Hundreds of needles prepared by nurses await arms to deliver COVID-19 vaccines at a Webster County Health Department mass vaccination clinic in March.

Those attending the vaccine booster clinic should enter the parking lot from the entrance near Second Avenue South and South Eighth Street. Staff will be on site to direct traffic.

Individuals should bring their vaccine card showing the first and second doses. They are also asked to print and complete the consent form on the WebsterCountyIA.gov COVID19 webpage, though forms will be available on site.

“If WCHD provided your vaccine, we will be able to validate your shot and personal information,” Prescott said. “If you did not receive your vaccine from WCHD, you are required to bring your vaccine card.”

Homebound residents who are unable to attend a drive-thru clinic should call 515-573-4107.

Individuals who received their first and second doses at a Webster County Health Department mass clinic but are not from the Webster County area don’t have to come to Fort Dodge for a booster shot, as vaccines are widely available and these booster shots can be done local to the individual.

As of Monday, there have been 82 positive COVID-19 tests in Webster County over the past seven days, according to the Iowa Department of Public Health.

According to the CDC, 47.2% of Webster County residents eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, or 16,929, have been fully vaccinated.