The new shots from Pfizer and Moderna are meant to target both the original COVID-19 strain and Omicron subvariants, BA.4 and BA.5, that have become dominant in the U.S. While the original vaccine still provides some protection, experts believe the new booster will cut down on both infection and transmission.
We asked Dr. Vince Vinditto with the UK College of Pharmacy if this is a first step toward something more like regularly updated seasonal flu shots.
"I certainly think that that is a goal here, that, as new variants come up, we can very rapidly test the safety of a new variant vaccine."Dr. Vince Vinditto, UK College of Pharmacy
For now, the hope is that the vaccines are catching up with the changing virus, though it could always throw researchers another variant curveball — that remains to be seen.
As for availability, assistant director of pharmacy operations at UK HealthCare Jim Hallahan says Lexingtonians can anticipate the new booster option next week.
"We're expecting to have the product by late this week and offer it Monday, September 12, at retail locations. That's still subject to change based on when we actually receive the product."
Tune in for today's COVID-19 briefing with Secretary Becerra, Dr. Fauci, Dr. Jha, and Dr. Walensky. https://t.co/XEuxpL4kTj
— White House COVID-19 Response Team (@WHCOVIDResponse) September 6, 2022
A couple notes: There are age limits on the shots, with the Pfizer booster for those 12 and up and the Moderna version approved for those 18 and older. Those interested must be at least two months out from their most recent COVID vaccination and the new updated boosters cannot act as a first shot. Recipients must have completed the original vaccine series first.
The enhanced boosters will be free.
