Atlanta, Georgia – As fall approaches, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that individuals aged six months and older receive updated COVID-19 and flu shots. The CDC advisory panel’s unanimous vote signals a shift toward treating the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic similarly to other respiratory illnesses like seasonal flu and RSV. In a statement, CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen emphasized the importance of vaccination for protecting against respiratory illnesses. Recommendations include routine flu shots targeting three dominant influenza A strains from the previous winter season.
Recent data shows a decrease in new COVID-19 vaccinations, with less than a quarter of American adults having received the latest shot by May. Concerns were raised regarding the expiration of the CDC’s Bridge Access Program, which provided free COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured or underinsured individuals before the rollout of updated shots in August. Despite lower case counts compared to previous years, the virus continues to mutate, leading to an increase in cases with new sub-variants.
Vaccinations provide crucial protection against severe illness and hospitalizations, as seen in data comparing vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. The updated vaccines aim to target newer dominant strains as immunity from previous shots or infections wanes over time. Health experts stress the importance of getting vaccinated ahead of the expected winter spikes in COVID-19 cases to prevent severe illness and complications.
Dr. Paul Offit, a member of an FDA panel, notes that COVID-19 is likely here to stay, joining other respiratory illnesses in causing significant cases and deaths annually. Certain high-risk groups, including older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women, are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of severe outcomes. The CDC continues to update its guidance on COVID-19 and flu vaccines, aiming to establish a routine cycle of vaccinations for the public’s convenience.
The rollout of updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting the JN.1 strain, along with its sub-variants, is expected in August or September. As the virus evolves, staying updated on vaccinations becomes crucial in mitigating the spread of disease and preventing serious health complications. Public health officials stress the importance of establishing a regular routine for receiving flu and COVID-19 vaccines every fall to maintain protection against respiratory illnesses.