Fall 2023 COVID Vaccine
Updated COVID-19 Vaccine 2023: What You Need to Know
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have authorized and recommended 2 newCOVID-19 vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer that was modeled after a recent Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5. We have answered some of the most pressing questions we have received from patients here:
How is this booster different from past vaccines?
The updated booster is a monovalent vaccine, which means it targets one variant of the virus, unlike the bivalent booster from last fall which was formulated to target the original COVID variant and a later . The previous booster was a bivalent vaccine, formulated to target the original COVID-19strain and the original Omicron variant.
Will this new booster protect against currently circulating and new variants?
Good news here! Recent studies show the updated Pfizer and Moderna shots do provide a strong antibody response to both EG.5 and BA.2.86,the currently dominant Eris and Pirola variants.
Who is eligible to receive the updated vaccine?
The CDC is recommending that everyone 6 months and older should get an updated COVID-19 vaccine. Both the Moderna and Pfizer monovalent vaccine should be used at least two months after a prior COVID-19 vaccine. The number of doses required will vary based on age and prior vaccination history.
How can I get my booster?
Many pharmacies are acting as vaccination sites, or you might be able to visit your doctor’s office or a public health department for a vaccination as well. Visit https://www.vaccines.gov to find a vaccination site near you.
What are the side effects of the booster?
Reported side effects are similar to those of the initial COVID vaccination course and should resolve within 24-48 hours. The most common side effects include:
· Pain at the injection site
· Headache
· Fatigue
· Low-grade fever
If you experience these side effects and need help or if any symptoms are prolonged, our clinical team is happy to help. Please visit us or reserve your visit ahead of time.
I’ve been feeling sick, should I get tested before I get my booster?
If you haven’t been feeling well, our experts recommend testing for viruses like COVID-19 or the flu before getting a vaccine. If you have recently been exposed to COVID-19, be sure to check out the updatedCOVID-19 guidelines to see what these changes mean for you.
I usually get my flu shot at this time of year. Can I get the COVID booster at the same time?
Yes! Health officials advise that it is safe and effective to get both shots at the same time, but you don’t have to. If you chose to get them separately, there’s no official recommendations on how long to wait. Personally, I would wait about 1-2 weeks if you choose to separate the doses.
Please remember the PhysicianOne Urgent care team is always here to answer your questions and help advise you of the best course of action to keep you and your loved ones healthy. We are available 24/7 on our telehealth platform and 365 days per year for in-center visits if you need us!
