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Title: Understanding New COVID Variants and Boosters for Enhanced Protection

Introduction:
As COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations resurge, most of the country has eliminated masking and social distancing measures. This has led to a decrease in awareness and vigilance towards the virus. However, with the emergence of new variants and the introduction of updated vaccines, it’s important to stay informed and proactive in protecting ourselves. In this article, we will explore the new COVID variants, the efficacy of the updated boosters, and provide practical insights for staying safe.

Section 1: New COVID Variants
1.1 Exploring the different variants: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified several new variants, including EG.5 (Eris) and BA.2.86 (Pirola).
1.2 Understanding Eris: Eris is currently the most common variant in the United States, accounting for nearly 25% of COVID-19 infections.
1.3 Examining Pirola: While Pirola has not been prevalent, it has appeared worldwide and is being closely monitored by WHO and CDC.

Section 2: Efficacy of New COVID Boosters
2.1 Introduction to monovalent boosters: The new COVID boosters from Moderna and Pfizer specifically target the XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant.
2.2 Significance of neutralizing antibodies: Preliminary data suggests a significant increase in neutralizing antibodies against EG.5 and BA.2.86, providing enhanced protection against these variants.
2.3 Comparative effectiveness: The updated vaccines are better suited to circulating variants compared to previous vaccines, according to Dr. Thomas Russo.

Section 3: Key Considerations for Receiving the Booster
3.1 Recommended age groups: The CDC recommends all individuals aged 6 months and older to receive the updated vaccine.
3.2 Timing for booster administration: High-risk individuals or those with compromised immune systems should get vaccinated as soon as possible. Others are advised to receive the booster within the next few weeks.
3.3 Co-administration with the flu shot: While it is possible to receive the COVID booster along with the flu shot, spacing them out by a week or two may be beneficial to avoid potential cumulative side effects.

Section 4: Availability, Side Effects, and Costs
4.1 Availability of boosters: The FDA has approved and authorized the vaccines, and appointments can be scheduled at major pharmacies.
4.2 Side effects of the updated vaccines: The side effects are similar to previous vaccines and may include pain, swelling, redness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, chills, muscle, and joint pain, and fever.
4.3 Coverage and cost: Health insurance typically covers the vaccine, while individuals without insurance can access free vaccines through local health centers or pharmacies participating in the CDC Bridge Access Program.

Additional Piece:
Expanding our Understanding of COVID Variants and Boosting Strategies

Introduction:
While the new COVID boosters offer promising protection against emerging variants, it is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape and adapt our strategies accordingly. In this additional piece, we will delve further into related concepts and explore essential elements for effectively navigating the pandemic.

Section 1: The Evolutionary Nature of Viruses
1.1 Mutation dynamics: Viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, constantly mutate to ensure their survival and spread.
1.2 Impact of variants: Understanding the characteristics, transmissibility, and severity of new variants helps us prioritize public health measures and allocate resources effectively.

Section 2: The Role of Vaccines in Managing Variants
2.1 Adaptability of vaccines: The development of updated vaccines demonstrates our ability to respond to emerging variants and bolster immunity.
2.2 Importance of ongoing research: Further studies and surveillance are necessary to evaluate the long-term efficacy of boosters and adjust vaccination strategies accordingly.

Section 3: Mitigating COVID-19 Risks Beyond Vaccination
3.1 Maintaining preventive measures: While vaccines offer protection, it is crucial to continue practicing preventive measures such as hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and avoiding crowded indoor spaces.
3.2 Promoting vaccination efforts: Encouraging vaccine uptake in underserved communities and promoting equitable distribution can help reduce overall transmission and protect vulnerable populations.

Section 4: The Future of Pandemic Management
4.1 The need for global collaboration: International cooperation is essential for monitoring variants, sharing research findings, and ensuring equitable access to vaccines worldwide.
4.2 Preparedness and flexibility: Building robust public health infrastructure, establishing efficient surveillance systems, and addressing vaccine hesitancy are key steps in mitigating future pandemics.

Conclusion:
As COVID-19 continues to pose challenges, staying informed and proactive is crucial for effective pandemic management. By understanding the new COVID variants, embracing updated boosters, and implementing comprehensive prevention strategies, we can navigate these uncertain times with resilience and safeguard our communities.

Summary:
Now that the country has eliminated masking and social distancing measures, it’s essential to stay informed about the resurgence of COVID-19 cases and the emergence of new variants. The new COVID boosters, designed to target the most infectious variants, offer enhanced protection. Receiving the booster is recommended for most individuals, with high-risk groups advised to prioritize vaccination. The boosters are expected to be available soon, with similar side effects to previous vaccines. Health insurance typically covers the cost, while free vaccines are accessible through health centers and participating pharmacies. Taking a holistic approach by practicing preventive measures and promoting vaccination efforts is crucial for managing the evolving pandemic landscape. Global collaboration and preparedness are paramount in ensuring effective pandemic management and mitigating future outbreaks.

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Now that most of the country has eliminated masking and social distancingIt’s probably been a minute since you’ve thought much about COVID-19.

After all, cases decreased across the country over the summer, allowing you to focus more on things like going to the beach instead of worrying about the risk of infection.

But now that the weather is cooling and COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are increasing getting up againit is understandable to have the virus again at least in the back of your mind.

Combine that with the fact that there are some new variants of COVID in the mix, talk about another “tripledemic” and a new updated vaccine and you probably have questions.

Meet the expert: Dr. Thomas Russo, is a professor and chief of infectious diseases at the University at Buffalo in New York.

So what’s the deal with new COVID variants and boosting? Here’s what you need to know, according to an infectious disease doctor.

What are the new COVID variants?

There are actually a lot of COVID variants circulating right now, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION).

EG.5, also known as “Eris,” became the most common variant in the country in mid-summer. Eris is nicknamed by some experts as a “grandson” of Omicron, one of the most infectious COVID-19 variants. Currently, Eris accounts for nearly 25 percent of COVID-19 infections in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The spread of the variant is calculated with a degree of uncertainty, however, due to the rapid increase in infections. But this is a close estimate.

Another variant that is generating a lot of buzz is the BA.2.86, which has been called “Pirola.” There have not been many cases of this variant, but it has appeared around the world. The CDC says is “gathering information” about him and the World Health Organization (WHO) has added it to the organization’s list of “variants currently in circulation under monitoring.”

Will the new COVID-19 boosters protect against new variants?

So it seems. There are two new updated vaccines released for public use this fall: one from Moderna and one from Pfizer, and both target the XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant.

“We don’t have a lot of data on this right now, but both companies have published some data showing that there has been a significant increase in neutralizing antibodies against EG.5 and BA.2.86; Those variants have been a cause for concern. ,” says Dr. Thomas Russo, professor and chief of infectious diseases at the University at Buffalo in New York.

How is this new COVID booster different from previous vaccines?

The new boosters are monovalent, meaning they target a strain of SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19. The previous vaccine was bivalent and targeted multiple strains, explains Dr. Russo.

How well does the new COVID booster work?

It is quite effective. “This updated vaccine is better suited to circulating variants than some of the previous vaccines,” says Dr. Russo.

Boosters have been shown to strongly protect people against severe COVID and deathaccording to the CDC, and more modestly prevent infectionaccording to a study in New England Journal of Medicine. They can have a dramatic impact on those most likely to die from COVID, such as older adults and immunocompromised people.

Dr. Russo recommends thinking of COVID boosters like your annual flu shot. Scientists update it every year to try to match what they predict will be the most common variants in the coming season. “It looks like it will be a good match,” he says.

Worth noting: Since there is no clinical data yet for these updated vaccines, scientists cannot give an exact percentage of effectiveness against the virus, adds Dr. Russo.

What is the name of the new COVID booster?

The names of the updated vaccines are the same as before. Pfizer has Comirnaty and Moderna has Spikevax. This year’s version is simply called “2023-2024 formula.”

When will it be available?

Coming soon. The FDA has approved or authorized the vaccines in select age groups. And the CDC approved them too, so technically they’re ready.

“Many major pharmacies are already booking appointments for these medications,” says Dr. Russo.

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Who should receive the new COVID booster?

The CDC recommends that all people 6 months and older receive the updated vaccine.

However, if you received the COVID-19 vaccine in the last few weeks, Dr. Russo says it’s a good idea to wait until you pass the two-month mark.

When should I receive the booster?

If you are considered high risk, meaning you have certain underlying health conditions or have a compromised immune system)—Dr. Russo says it’s a good idea to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“Everyone should try to get it in the next few weeks,” he says. “COVID cases are increasing; this additional protection would be beneficial.” If you want a more concrete timeline, he recommends getting the updated vaccine before Halloween.

What are the side effects?

The side effects of the updated vaccines are similar to those of the past, Dr. Russo says. those can include:

• Pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site.
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Shaking chills
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Fever

Can I get the COVID booster at the same time as my flu shot?

“If you just want to get it over with, that’s fine,” says Dr. Russo. “However, if you have the luxury of time and don’t mind separating them, you may want to space them out a week or two so you don’t get a double whammy of potential side effects.”

Dr. Russo says it’s particularly a good idea if you’ve experienced side effects from either vaccine in the past.

How much does it cost?

If you have health insurance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the vaccine must be fully covered.

Don’t have health insurance? The CDC recommends going to your local health center or pharmacies that participate in the CDC program. Bridge Access Program for a free vaccine.

Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, and her work appears in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamor, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to one day own a teacup pig and a taco truck.

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a45207391/new-covid-variant-boosters/
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