Americans are being informed that they will need a new Covid booster shot this autumn to protect against emerging variants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the plans to offer the booster shots by mid-September. The Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax vaccines, which target the XBB variants, are expected to provide robust protection against the new variant named Eris. Additionally, experts believe that they will enhance immunity against the BA.2.86 variant, which has raised concerns about future waves of infections. While the mRNA or protein-based technology used in these vaccines is authorized for individuals over the age of 12, countries like the UK plan to administer boosters only to those over 65.
Covid boosters are set to be rolled out from mid-September, the CDC says (stock photo)
Despite the availability of booster shots, vaccine uptake in America remains low due to anti-vaxx conspiracy theories and skepticism regarding the benefits of additional shots for healthy middle-aged adults. During the initial rollout of vaccines, a significant number of individuals did not come forward to get vaccinated. The uptake further declined during the first wave of boosters in September 2021, with only 17% of eligible Americans receiving the booster shots to protect against the Wuhan strain. Officials anticipate a similar lack of interest in receiving the new boosters this year.
An official at the CDC emphasized the importance of vaccination to maintain immunity against Covid-19, citing the waning immunity and ongoing changes in the virus. The CDC has moved up the release of these boosters to mid-September from an initially planned release in early October. A meeting will be held on September 12 to determine the eligibility criteria for receiving the updated boosters. The goal is to administer the boosters to as many Americans as possible before the fall to strengthen immunity against the virus.
Although data is still being collected, initial findings indicate that the boosters offer robust neutralization against the XBB and Eris variants. However, more information is needed regarding the BA.2.86 variant. Global and US health authorities advise the public to remain calm despite the rising cases and new variants, emphasizing that the majority of the population now has immunity either through vaccination
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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
