US adds another option for fall COVID vaccination with updated Novavax shots

27

The United States has introduced a new option for receiving COVID-19 vaccinations this fall, featuring updated vaccines manufactured by Novavax. These updated vaccines are now available alongside the Pfizer and Moderna options, which were launched last month and are suitable for individuals as young as 6 months old. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded the choices available by approving reformulated Novavax shots for individuals aged 12 and above.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have already recommended that a majority of Americans receive a fall COVID-19 vaccination, particularly shots that have been adjusted to provide protection against a newer strain of the coronavirus. Novavax has announced that these shots will be accessible “in the coming days.”

It’s important to note that protection against COVID-19, whether from vaccination or a prior infection, tends to diminish over time. Consequently, as infections have increased in late summer, health officials are hopeful that a sufficient number of people will opt for the new shots to mitigate the potential for a winter surge.

Novavax produces a protein-based vaccine that incorporates an immune-boosting chemical, a technology distinct from the mRNA vaccines produced by Pfizer and Moderna. While Pfizer and Moderna have distributed millions of doses, the rollout for the fall has encountered challenges. Notably, the government is no longer procuring and distributing COVID-19 shots, leading to confusion in the ordering process at drugstores and doctors’ offices, distribution delays, and administrative issues with insurance companies, which have disrupted early vaccination appointments.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the updated versions of these vaccines are expected to be provided at no cost through private insurance or Medicare. Additionally, the CDC has implemented a program to temporarily offer free shots to those who are uninsured or underinsured.

(Note: The text provided has been paraphrased to maintain a formal and serious tone, as requested.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine

More about Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine

• FDA Authorization
• Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine
• Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine
• Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine
• CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance
• COVID-19 Variants