As the US battles a summer surge of Covid-19 cases, the US Food and Drug Administration has given the green light to updated Covid-19 vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech. Both companies have announced that the updated mRNA shots will soon be available at pharmacies and clinics across the country.
Dr. Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, emphasized the importance of vaccination in Covid-19 prevention. He stated that the updated vaccines meet the FDA's strict standards for safety, effectiveness, and quality manufacturing. With immunity waning due to previous exposure and vaccination, eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to consider receiving the updated Covid-19 vaccine for enhanced protection against current variants.
Major pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens are gearing up to offer the updated vaccines. CVS expects doses to arrive at their locations shortly, with walk-ins accepted once the supply is in. Walgreens customers can schedule appointments for the updated vaccine starting September 6, with walk-in options becoming available as supply increases.
Recent CDC data shows high levels of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in wastewater, indicating a significant summer peak in Covid-19 cases. While rates of severe disease, such as hospitalizations and deaths, are rising, they remain below previous levels.
The dominant strain in the US, KP.3.1.1, accounts for a substantial portion of recent cases and is included in the updated mRNA vaccines. This strain, along with KP.2, are variants of the Omicron variant. Novavax is developing an updated protein-based vaccine targeting the JN.1 variant.
The CDC recommends that individuals over 6 months old receive both an updated Covid-19 vaccine and a flu shot this year. The FDA has approved the updated Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for individuals aged 5 and older, with specific dosing guidelines for younger age groups and those with weakened immune systems.
Overall, the availability of updated vaccines offers a crucial tool in the ongoing fight against Covid-19, providing an opportunity for individuals to bolster their immunity and protect themselves and others from the virus.
