Buzz
As we approach our third winter living with the coronavirus, there's a new tool to help prevent severe illness. Vaccines introduced in late 2020 and early 2021, which were designed to combat earlier strains of the virus, have become less effective as new variants have emerged. The FDA has authorized new booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna that specifically target the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants, which are currently the dominant strains in the U.S.
The CDC has announced that starting this week, Americans can receive these updated booster shots. Here's what you need to know.
What are the benefits of the new boosters?
The two-dose vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, released between 2020 and 2021, were designed to target the dominant strain of the coronavirus at that time. The booster shots from both companies, introduced in the fall of 2021, were similarly formulated.
The new booster shots are bivalent, meaning they target not only the original strain but also the Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5, which are now the dominant strains. These subvariants may account for approximately 90% of new infections. The updated boosters are designed to better prime the immune system against these strains, reducing the likelihood of severe disease and death.
Do the new boosters replace the previous ones?
Yes. The new boosters are designed to target the original strain as well. If you’ve received the initial two-dose vaccine, there’s no need for a third or fourth booster before getting the Omicron-specific shot. However, you should wait at least two months after your last COVID vaccine before getting the new booster. Some experts suggest waiting up to six months, as your body might still be building an immune response, and a booster too soon may not provide much benefit.
Is the initial two-dose vaccination still necessary?
Yes. It’s necessary to get the original two-dose vaccine before you can receive the Omicron-specific booster.
What are the other eligibility criteria for receiving the Omicron booster?
The Pfizer booster is approved for individuals aged 12 and older, while the Moderna booster is for those 18 and older. Unlike previous boosters, there are no other age or health requirements, as long as you haven’t received a booster or the initial two-dose vaccine in the last two months.
What if I’ve already had COVID?
Since reinfection is possible, individuals who’ve had COVID should still consider getting the booster. It’s recommended to consult your doctor, but typically, you’ll want to wait four to six months after the infection before getting the booster.
Have the bivalent boosters been tested?
Although these boosters have received approval from the FDA and CDC, they didn't go through a full clinical trial. A similar vaccine targeting the BA.1 Omicron subvariant was tested earlier this year. The new bivalent boosters are essentially the same as the previous ones, with minor adjustments to better target the new Omicron subvariants. For comparison, the flu shot is not subjected to an annual study. It's still unclear how effective the booster will be in preventing or reducing severe disease.
Where can I get the new bivalent booster?
Most major pharmacy chains, including CVS and Walgreens, will offer the Omicron bivalent boosters and typically allow you to schedule an appointment online. As with previous COVID vaccinations, the shots will be provided free of charge to the public.
