A primary goal in Phase 1b is preventing deaths and the ethical and equitable distribution of vaccines. With limited vaccine supply, those least able to protect themselves should be prioritized in this phase. Vaccination in this phase will focus on those at greatest risk of getting COVID-19 and those performing critical tasks in support of society who are at a much higher risk of getting COVID-19 on their jobs.

What you need to know

• CDC recommends that people with moderately to severely compromised immune systems receive an additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine at least 28 days after a second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

As South Carolina prepared for the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines into the state, the South Carolina COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Committee (VAC) helped advise DHEC on ways to ensure the safe, equitable and ethical distribution of vaccines. 

Updated May 8, 2023

As of April 18, 2023, COVID-19 Monovalent mRNA vaccines (Pfizer BioNtech, Comirnity ©, Moderna, Spikevax©), are no longer authorized for use in the United States. These have been replaced with new bivalent vaccines that have proven to be more effective against new and emerging COVID-19 variants.

As of June 1, 2023, DHEC Health Clinics will only administer Moderna bivalent vaccine.

Who is eligible for a booster dose or additional booster dose of bivalent COVID-19 vaccine?

Vaccine makers, the federal government, state, local, and territorial jurisdictions, and other partners are working to make sure safe and effective vaccines are getting to you as quickly as possible. This page will help you understand the key steps in this important process.

COVID-19 can cause mild to severe illness; most severe illness occurs in older adults. Symptoms include:

How to Protect Yourself & Your Family 

What to do if You Feel Sick

Choose a mask that has two or more layers, completely covers your nose and mouth, and fits snugly against the sides of your face and doesn’t have gaps. The CDC has additional mask guidance here. A proper fitting KN-95 mask is ideal in non-healthcare settings, but not everyone has this type of mask