by Sue Moroney, RN
Hey there! Just a friendly reminder about the latest COVID vaccine updates:
The FDA has approved two updated COVID mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer for anyone aged 6 months or older. These vaccines target the Omicron variant. For those 12 years and older, there’s also the Novavax vaccine, which is protein-based and requires two doses given at least three weeks apart.
According to the CDC, 95% of people have some level of protection against COVID from previous vaccination or infection. However, it’s important to note that the virus has changed significantly, and previous antibodies may not work as well against the new variants.
Getting vaccinated not only reduces the risk of getting long COVID with lasting symptoms, but it also helps prevent severe illness.
The CDC recommends the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older, regardless of previous vaccination or infection.
It’s important to know that older individuals, certain ethnic groups, and people with specific health conditions are at higher risk for COVID.
Here are some recommendations:
- Wait at least 2 months
- You can wait 3 months after your last COVID vaccine dose before getting the updated vaccine.
- If you’ve had an mRNA COVID vaccine, you can get the updated Novavax dose at least 2 months after your last dose.
- The best way to stay healthy and prevent COVID is to get the updated vaccine as soon as possible.
Stay safe and take care!
