FDA Approves Updated COVID Vaccine to Combat Rising Cases of Variants
By John Kennedy | Capital Bureau | USA TODAY NETWORK – FLORIDA
Tallahassee, FL – In the battle against the rising cases of COVID variants across the country, the FDA has granted approval for an updated COVID vaccine. This development comes as cases continue to increase, causing concern among public health officials.
Dr. Scott Rivkees, the former top public health official in Florida, criticized Governor Ron DeSantis’ recent skepticism towards the COVID-19 vaccine. Specifically, Rivkees expressed disappointment in the state’s decision to discourage individuals under the age of 65 from receiving the new booster shot.
According to Rivkees, this move contradicts the goals of public health and has contributed to lower vaccination rates in the state. He believes that the anti-vaccine messaging promoted by DeSantis has had a cumulative negative effect on vaccination efforts.
DeSantis has been involved in a series of controversies regarding his stance on COVID-19 restrictions and vaccines. Recently, Florida health officials issued guidance that deviated from the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding COVID-19 boosters. Instead, they advised that most people should not receive the new COVID shot.
Furthermore, DeSantis has hosted forums and appeared on far-right podcasts alongside research scientists known for raising doubts about vaccines and their safety. This has led to accusations that he is courting anti-vax voters and contradicting federal guidelines.
Despite the diverging opinions, the CDC has recommended the new COVID vaccine, which is expected to arrive in Florida pharmacies soon. However, the issue of vaccine hesitancy remains prominent among Republican voters, with DeSantis fueling conspiracies about the pandemic during his campaign.
Dr. Rivkees emphasizes that COVID is preventable through vaccines, which have been proven to be safe and effective. He believes that DeSantis and his administration’s approach goes against conventional public health norms and encourages a positive messaging about the benefits of vaccines.
As the battle against COVID variants intensifies, it is crucial for public officials and health experts to work together to ensure the well-being and safety of the public. Vaccination efforts play a significant role in controlling the spread of the virus and reducing the impact of variants.
For more information, contact John Kennedy at [email protected] or on Twitter at @JKennedyReport.
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