The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published its recommendations on the new COVID-19 booster now available. With the newest variant going around, the CDC recommends getting the booster as soon as you are eligible and to get another booster every six months. The new boosters adds Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 spike protein components to help restore previous vaccination protection.
Stanislaus State students can get their boosters at an upcoming vaccine clinic on campus for students, faculty and staff for both the flu and COVID-19 boosters. The on-site clinic will be free of charge for the COVID-19 booster, just remember to bring your Warrior ID or Warrior ID number. The clinic will be held Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Center, Turlock Conference Room. Appointments are required and can be made by filling out a form here.
Vicki Jones, director of safety and risk management, explains how the new CDC recommendations will affect Stan State.
“Students, faculty and staff who have certified their vaccination status are required to stay up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster shots when eligible,” she said.
Amy Diaz, director of the health center at Stan State said students who cannot attend the on-site clinic have a variety of other options to get their boosters. 
“You can locate vaccine and booster clinics near you by visiting the California Department of Public Health website,” she said. 
This should help those who need to update their vaccination but have a busy schedule to be able to locate a clinic.
“The daily screenings will still be necessary to go to campus and help prevent the spread of COVID-19,” Diaz added. 
Along with the booster that is available, mask regulations on campus have eased up a bit. Masks are required only in instructional settings, learning, research, creative/performing activities and advising that is taking place indoors with one or more students. The new mask policy helps students feel a little more at ease entering buildings to take a break or study between classes.
Students like Jose Mota (senior, Communication Studies) are happy about the relaxed masking policy. 
“It’s nice being able to sit down with fellow students and not have to wear a mask.”
You can find out more information on the mask policy here.