New COVID-19 Booster Available as Infection Rates Rise
As autumn begins and COVID infection rates rise, a new COVID-19 booster is now available to provide additional protection against the virus. The booster comes at a crucial time with the emergence of the new Eris variant, which has contributed to the sharp increase in infection rates since August.
Immunologists emphasize the importance of getting the new COVID-19 booster but also caution that it should not be relied upon as the sole means of protection. With the rates spiking at the beginning of autumn and ahead of the holiday season, it is crucial to continue practicing other preventive measures such as wearing masks and ensuring proper ventilation, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as those over 65 or with underlying medical conditions.
“The vaccine should be used in conjunction with other protective measures such as masking and ventilation for those people at higher risk for severe disease (like people over 65 or with underlying medical conditions),” says immunologist and University of South Florida associate dean of internal medicine, Dr. Michael N. Teng, MD.
The new booster vaccine is expected to have similar side effects to the previous COVID vaccines, according to immunologist and professor of biological and biomedical sciences at Bryant University, Dr. Kirsten Hokeness, Ph.D. Side effects may include fatigue, headaches, and pain at the injection site. Some patients may also experience mild muscle aches, chills, or a low-grade fever. However, experiencing these side effects is a positive indicator that the immune system is responding to the vaccine and working to protect against severe COVID infections in the future.
It is worth noting that not all individuals will experience side effects, and this does not indicate that the vaccine is ineffective. Each person’s body and immune system respond uniquely to the vaccine.
While the side effects of the booster may be unpleasant, they typically subside within a few days. Immunologist Dr. Jenna Podjasek, MD, explains that most COVID booster side effects are mild and resolve within 24 to 48 hours.
The benefits of the new COVID vaccine far outweigh the risks, according to immunologists. The vaccine is highly effective against new variants and significantly reduces the risk of severe impacts from COVID, including long COVID and death.
“The benefit-risk profile indicates that serious side effects that have the potential to cause long-term health issues are very rare following the COVID vaccine as opposed to the reported damaging impacts the infection can cause, including long COVID and even death,” says Dr. Hokeness.
Dr. Teng adds, “The updated vaccine matches the circulating strains much better than the original vaccines, so there is a clear benefit to it. Also, our antibody response wanes over time from both vaccination and infection. It is a good idea to bolster our immune protection as we head into the holiday season where there will be a lot of travel and interaction in enclosed spaces.”
Managing the side effects of the new COVID vaccine involves listening to your body and resting as needed. Over-the-counter pain medication can help alleviate pain and soreness. If more severe symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.
As the new booster becomes more readily available, it is crucial for eligible individuals to consider getting vaccinated to protect themselves and others against COVID-19 and its variants.