As autumn ushers in the onset of cooler weather and a fresh academic year, it comes with an increased risk of COVID-19 infections along with a surge in regular seasonal ailments like the common cold and flu. On August 22, 2024, an important development in combating these risks was made by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). They authorized the use of an updated COVID-19 vaccine that targets the most prevalent and rapidly spreading strains.
The Chief Hospital Quality & Infection Prevention Officer at Hackensack Meridian Health, Dr. Jerry Zuckerman, asserts that it is highly advisable for individuals aged six months and older to get inoculated. This recommendation is particularly pertinent for those with underlying health conditions, compromised immune systems, or those aged 65 and above. According to Dr. Zuckerman, immunity against infections gradually loses its potency over time. This applies whether your immunity is acquired from prior vaccinations, past infections or both.
The waning nature of immunity is why repeated infections are possible. Vaccines are most efficacious in the first six months post-vaccination, and while the protective shield it provides might reduce over time, getting vaccinated still diminishes your chances of hospitalization or dying from COVID-19. If your last COVID-19 shot was over six months ago, it’s recommended that you receive the updated vaccine. This will not only boost your immunity but also provide protection against new COVID variants that you may not yet be immune to.
Three vaccines are currently available. For individuals who are not moderately or severely immunocompromised, the recommended doses are contingent on whether they have received previous doses or this is their initial vaccination. In the case of individuals aged 65 and older, additional doses are not currently advocated. Conversely, for those moderately or severely immunocompromised, the recommended mRNA vaccine and the number of 2024–25 doses are dependent on the individual’s age and vaccination history. For those aged 65 and older, 1 or more age-appropriate doses of a 2024–25 mRNA vaccine may be advised, provided they are six months or older.
Expected side effects from the updated COVID-19 vaccine, outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fall in line with those experienced from past COVID vaccines. Past experiences with side effects do not necessarily dictate future occurrences with the updated vaccine and vice versa. Generally, most side effects dissipate within a day or two.
Despite severe illness, hospitalization, and death rates from COVID significantly reducing since the start of the pandemic, and infections becoming comparatively milder, COVID-19 can still provoke severe complications, particularly in elderly or immunocompromised individuals. The looming threat of ‘Long COVID’ post-infection remains real. To mitigate these risks, regular vaccination forms a critical part of infection control, preventing the spread of the virus to others.
It is essential to emphasize that while HealthU’s material is intended to provide general information on this topic, it should not be used as a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized care.
Hackensack Meridian Health, Inc., a non-profit charitable organization, endorses this message. Donations are tax-deductible in line with the provisions of Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3).