New Vaccines Expected to Combat COVID-19 Variants by Mid-September
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials have announced that new vaccines to counter the rising COVID-19 variants are expected to hit drugstores and clinics by mid-September.
According to CNN, these updated vaccines are part of the U.S. government’s preparation for the upcoming fall and winter respiratory virus season. As the FDA eagerly seeks approval for the updated vaccine, the CDC will assess its safety and effectiveness, ensuring that it meets the necessary standards.
Once the CDC director gives the green light, the new shots can be administered nationwide. This booster vaccine arrives just in time, as new variants gain momentum and more people begin spending time indoors.
Dr. Jessie Saverimuttu cautioned that while the FL.1.5.1 variant remains a prominent strain on Staten Island, the anticipated booster shot is expected to effectively handle it. It is recommended that vulnerable individuals wear masks and exercise caution to prevent the spread of this variant.
The new vaccine booster will differ from the bivalent booster previously discussed, as reported by The Advance/SILive.com. The CDC and New York City medical experts advise that everyone, including those who have not received prior COVID-19 vaccinations, should receive the new booster.
CNN also revealed that the FDA plans to grant licensure for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for individuals aged 12 and older. Children aged 11 and under will only be vaccinated under emergency use authorization.
Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurance plans are obligated to cover the entire cost of vaccines without any co-pays, even for the new COVID-19 booster. Individuals without insurance can obtain vaccines for free through a government bridge program.
The CDC has not yet announced the exact availability date for the vaccine. However, a meeting to discuss the vaccine is expected to take place on September 12, potentially indicating that the vaccine could be accessible shortly after. Stay tuned for further updates on the vaccine’s availability.