FDA advisers call for specific consideration of JN.1 strain in fall COVID vaccine formulation
Government advisers said it is time to update the formula of the COVID-19 vaccines that Americans will receive in the fall, with the goal being a version called JN.1.
Scripps News
None of us want to think about it, but the statistics leave no doubt that the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing. Data from the Massachusetts Bureau of Infectious Diseases showed a significant increase in cases this summer since early July.
Since the disease first brought the world to a standstill, numerous variants have been identified, so for continued protection, an up-to-date vaccine should be at the top of your list. The Centers for Disease Control recommends several vaccines and recommends that people get the new COVID-19 vaccine, which has been further developed to better match the new strains.
The good news is that vaccination is very easy and often free.
Where can I get the current vaccine?
A doctor’s office, health center or pharmacy near you should offer the updated vaccine along with the flu shot. Check with CVS, Rite-Aid, Walgreens and similar stores in your area. You can also visit Vaccines.gov or the COVID-19 Mobile Vaccination Program website to find additional locations.
Vaccinations at the local health department, community health center or government-sponsored vaccination clinic are free for everyone. Children under 19 are also entitled to a free vaccination at their GP or community health center.
If you have health insurance, most plans should cover the cost of the vaccination at no cost to you.
Who should receive the updated vaccine
According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, anyone who has not received a COVID vaccination since September 12, 2023 is eligible, so if you haven’t received a vaccine in the last year, now is the time.
Dosage and type of vaccine vary by age, experts say – children between six months and 11 years old should get the updated vaccine from Pfizer or Moderna; children under four may need up to three doses. Anyone over 12 can also get the updated vaccine from Novavax, but should get two doses of it if they have not received a COVID vaccine before.
People over 65 should also plan to receive another dose approximately four months after the first dose. People at higher risk, namely those with weakened immune systems, may also need additional doses.
