New Jersey health officials reported more than 33,000 new cases of COVID-19, breaking a record for most cases of the virus reported in one day in the state. The number is 2,000 more than the previous record, which was set on Wednesday.

State health officials have also reported 63 additional COVID-19-related deaths. The statewide death toll from the pandemic now stands at 26,519 confirmed deaths.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that COVID-19 hospitalizations among children under 5 are rising. Since the explosion of the Omicron variant in early December, the CDC says that 4 in 100,000 children have been hospitalized. They say that the trend continues to underscore the need for vaccinations in all who are eligible.

A dozen COVID-19 testing sites opened in Paterson. It was set up for before students and staff return to school in the city. In-person learning will begin on Jan. 18.

The Paterson School District has opened the 12 sites to help students and employees avoid long lines. The testing sites will be open Tuesday through Saturday.

Starting on Dec. 10, Somerset County will be administering Pfizer booster shots to children as young as 12. The first clinic will open at the Senior Wellness Center on East Main Street in Bridgewater. The clinic will operate every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Boosters will be administered on Mondays from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. People must bring proof of vaccination and proof of residency.

Regarding the Moderna booster shots, the Food and Drug Administration shortened the period of time to wait between initial shots and the booster to at least five months for anyone over the age of 18. The FDA says that shortening the length of time may reduce waning immunity. The agency already shortened the time for Pfizer boosters to five months.