Some states offer coronavirus booster shots to all Americans 18 and older

Columbia, Mo. (KMIZ.)

In some states, booster doses are moving ahead of the first and second COVID-19 vaccination shots.

Yesterday's data shows 4,049 people received their first and second COVID vaccines but 6,964 people received a booster shot.

"People are traveling more than they were before and it is a requirement to travel to certain areas um so I think that all kinda plays a role too. You also have certain companies that are now requiring it", Ashton Day with Columbia and Boone County Health says.

The state has administered over 6.8 million vaccines.

As COVID-19 vaccines continue to grow nationwide, some states are even recommending booster shots for all people 18 years and older six months after they receive a vaccination dose.

A state doctor says although Missouri will not advocate this idea they are hopeful for the approval of a Pfizer booster shot for all adults.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices plans to meet on Friday to discuss this.

According to ABC News, the list of states that are giving this green light is Arkansas, California, Colorado, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, and West Virginia.

Dr. Laura Morris who works for MU Health Care feels the community should focus on delivering shots to people who need it most.

"Patients who are um already under the emergency use authorization for boosters are the ones who we really should be focusing on", Morris said.

Morris says not everyone is at the same degree of risk from infection, hospitalization, serious illness, or death.

"The older people in our communities are at the highest risk", Morris said.

People who have received their Moderna and Pfizer shots are encouraged to get their booster shot 6 months after receiving their second dose if they are over the age of 65 or have an underlying medical condition.

A government official confirmed that the FDA could issue guidance as soon as this week for the Pfizer and Moderna booster shots for people 18 years and older.