New COVID boosters have been approved by the FDA.
Here, an immunologist explains when to get one and answers other common questions.
Another brand, called Novavax, has an updated vaccine that aligns with FDA recommendations.
Why are new COVID boosters being offered?
Just like flu vaccines are updated each year because the virus changes, the same is true with COVID.
COVID mutates and changes more rapidly than the influenza virus does.
infectious disease specialist and professor of preventive medicine and health policy at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Does this booster protect against all Omicron variants?
As far as whether these boosters will protect you from Omicron?
Should you get the booster now if you had COVID over the summer?
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
Whens the best time to get the new COVID boosters?
Thats because it will provide the best reach of protection throughout the winter, Dr. Schaffner says.
This recommendation also stands for those who are over 65, are immunocompromised, or have underlying health conditions.
You dont want to get it too soon, he adds.
If youre ever unsure about what to do, reach out to your primary care doctor for advice.
infectious disease specialist and professor of preventive medicine and health policy at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
When will the new COVID boosters be available?
Even if you have the best intentions, youre a lot less likely to make that second trip.
A vaccine deferred is unfortunately a vaccine never received, Dr. Schaffner says.
He emphasizes these vaccines are designed to prevent severe disease and keep people out of the hospital.
Practice social distancing if you or someone you know has just been sick.
And of course, wash your hands often to stop the spread of all germsnot just COVID.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
