Updated Pfizer COVID-19 Booster Recommendation: Boosters available for 16 -17-year-old age group
On December 9th, 2021, the CDC strengthened its booster recommendations and encouraged everyone 16 years of age and older to receive a booster shot.
At this time, only the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine is authorized and recommended as booster doses for those under 18 years of age.
For more information on this new booster recommendation, please review the CDC’s statement here.
On December 23rd , Pfizer 300 COVID-19 Vaccine (Gray Cap) Will Be Available for Ordering in VAOS
Pfizer 1170 COVID-19 vaccine (purple cap) for ages 12 years and older will be available for ordering in VAOS until Tuesday, December 21st.
Beginning Thursday, December 23rd, the new Pfizer 300 COVID-19 vaccine (gray cap) will become available for ordering in VAOS, to replace Pfizer 1170.
Providers should finish their supply of purple cap before placing orders for the new gray cap formulation.
To avoid errors while both products are in circulation, please do not use the gray cap and purple cap vaccines at the same time.
For more information detailing the availability of Pfizer COVID-19 gray cap vaccine, please refer to DSHS’ December 10th email, titled “Updates on Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters, Ordering”
If providers have any questions about ordering their COVID-19 vaccines, please contact: COVID19VacShipments@dshs.Texas.gov
Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Formulations
Providers are encouraged to review the graphic below to understand the storage, handling, and administration requirements of the three different Pfizer formulations.
 There are currently three different formulations of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine: Pfizer 100 (orange cap, for patients ages 5-11), Pfizer 300 (gray cap, for patients ages 12 and older), and Pfizer 1170 (purple cap, for patients ages 12 and older). The goal is to transition away from the Pfizer (purple cap) and begin to utilize the Pfizer (gray cap).
COVID-19 Vaccine Holiday Delivery Schedules
Please review the two tables below for information on the Christmas and New Year’s adjusted delivery schedules.
Christmas Delivery Schedule
 New Year’s Delivery Schedule
 Please note that there will be no deliveries of full pack size orders from Pfizer or McKesson Specialty from December 23rd to December 27th or from December 30th to January 3rd.
From December 20th to January 2nd, the state’s delivery partner, Cold Chain Technologies (CCT), will only deliver less than full pack size orders on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If your facility will be closed or otherwise unable to receive shipments on those dates, your shipment will be delivered the following week.
Providers are encouraged to place full pack size orders for COVID-19 vaccine in the Vaccine Allocation & Ordering System (VAOS) by noon Central Time today, December 17th, at 12:00pm CT to ensure you have sufficient supplies for the holidays.
Expert Tip: TCEQ Guidance on Waste Disposal
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) provides guidance on COVID-19 waste disposal. Please visit their website here for more information.
For more information on reporting waste in VAOS, see the guide here.
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