DHSS: Updated COVID-19 vaccines to become available this week

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Missouri Department of Health and Human Services said in a Wednesday press release that updated COVID-19 vaccines from will be available this week.

The new vaccine -- which was recently approved by the FDA -- recommended to anyone 6 months and older by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention

Residents who have not received an update vaccine in the past two months, can get can get an updated vaccine for protection this fall and winter, the release states.

“Just as in the previous years, the State of Missouri will not require anyone to be vaccinated against COVID-19; that’s not our role,” DHSS Director Paula F. Nickelson said in the release. “We work to ensure Missourians have access to factual information about the vaccines and access to vaccines themselves if they choose. We encourage each individual to discuss vaccination with their medical provider.”

Boone Hospital in Columbia told ABC 17 News in an email their team is still discussing when the new vaccine will be offered.

Lake Regional Health System told ABC 17 News in an email they are still waiting on information from their wholesaler and manufacturers on when they can receive shipments.