January 7, 2022 3:40 a.m.

On Thursday, the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup completed its review of the federal process, and recommended expanding Pfizer-BioNtech booster dose eligibility to anyone 12 years of age and older who completed their primary vaccination series at least 5 months ago.

The workgroup also confirmed the federal authorization of a 3rd vaccine dose to certain immunocompromised children ages 5 to 11.

On Monday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized the expanded use of the booster shot and the CDC affirmed those decisions on Wednesday. The workgroup reviewed and affirmed the federal decisions on Thursday morning.

The Oregon Health Authority is now informing health care providers that booster shots for newly eligible individuals can begin in Oregon immediately.