**With COVID Cases Increasing, CDC Advises Updated Vaccine for Fall Season**
As the fall season approaches, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has approved an updated COVID-19 vaccine to combat the rising cases of the virus. Governor Kathy Hochul has urged all New Yorkers to get the updated shot, which will be available at pharmacies, physicians’ offices, and other healthcare providers across New York State in the coming days.
“The vaccine has always been the best way to protect yourself and your community against COVID-19, and this updated vaccine addresses newer strains of the virus that are currently circulating,” Governor Hochul stated. “As we enter the Fall season, when respiratory viruses circulate, it is vital that New Yorkers consider getting this updated vaccine to protect themselves from this still dangerous virus.”
The updated vaccine was reformulated to target a subvariant of Omicron, known as XBB.1.5. According to the CDC, over 90% of the COVID viruses currently circulating are closely related to this strain. Tests have shown that the updated vaccine is effective at increasing immunity to a more recent variant, BA.2.86.
Dr. James McDonald, New York State Department of Health Commissioner, emphasized the importance of the updated vaccine. “As we head into the fall and winter months, and once again see an uptick in COVID across the State, I urge all New Yorkers to remember that COVID is a treatable disease, and we now have an updated vaccine that will help reduce your chance of serious illness and hospitalization. Remember, it’s about personal protection, personal prevention, and personal wellness.”
The CDC recommends the updated COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older who has not received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past two months. The recommended dosages vary depending on age and vaccination history:
– **Children 6 months through 4 years**: If getting the vaccine for the first time, they should receive two doses of the Moderna vaccine or three doses of the Pfizer vaccine. If previously vaccinated, they should get one dose of either updated vaccine.
– **Children 5 through 11 years**: Eligible for a single dose of the updated vaccine at least two months after their last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.
– **Individuals 12 and older**: If previously vaccinated, they should get a single dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna updated vaccine. If not previously vaccinated, they should get a two-shot series.
– **Those infected with COVID-19 within the last two months**: Should consult with a healthcare provider.
Under the Affordable Care Act, most health insurance plans will cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccines without co-pays. For those uninsured or whose insurance does not cover the updated vaccine, the shots will be available free of charge through community health centers, local, tribal, or territorial health departments, and pharmacies participating in the HHS’ Bridge Access Program.
In addition to the updated COVID-19 vaccine, New Yorkers are encouraged to get their annual flu shot and inquire about the RSV vaccine. Individuals showing symptoms should test for COVID-19, and those who test positive should contact their healthcare provider about possible treatments, which have been shown to reduce the chances of serious outcomes. Immunocompromised individuals, those with lung or cardiovascular irregularities, seniors, and others at higher risk are especially encouraged to discuss COVID-19 treatments with a healthcare professional. Those who test positive should also avoid contact with others, including staying home from work, school, and social activities.
At-home COVID-19 tests remain available at many local pharmacies statewide. New York continues to provide high-quality N-95 masks and test kits to state and county officials upon request. New Yorkers can contact their respective county health department or local emergency management office for more information and find current COVID-19 vaccine sites online.
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State continues to take strong actions to monitor and mitigate the spread of COVID-19. These steps follow an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in New York this summer and the detection of the BA.2.86 variant in New York City wastewater.
The New York State Department of Health (DOH) and Wadsworth Center continue vital strategies of wastewater surveillance and laboratory clinical analysis, conducted with partners at Syracuse University and across the state, to understand variant spread and the potential impact on public health.
As the fall season brings an increase in respiratory viruses, it is crucial for New Yorkers to stay vigilant and take preventive measures. The updated COVID-19 vaccine, along with flu and RSV vaccines, offers a robust defense against these illnesses. By staying informed and proactive, New Yorkers can protect themselves and their communities from the ongoing threat of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses.
Source: CDC, New York State Department of Health, Governor Kathy Hochul’s Office
