CDC and FDA greenlight COVID-19 boosters for all ages six months and up
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has made a monumental move by authorizing, approving, and recommending COVID-19 booster shots for everyone aged 6 months and older. This game-changing decision has President Joe Biden lauding it as an “important milestone” in the battle against the pandemic.
Biden Declares ‘Historic Progress’ as CDC & FDA Recommend Boosters
According to an official White House statement, President Joe Biden called the new recommendations “another important milestone” in the fight against COVID-19. “Today marks another important milestone. Following an independent scientific review, the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have now authorized, approved, and recommended everyone 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine,” Biden said.
CDC and FDA greenlight COVID-19 boosters for all ages six months and up. Image courtesy of Wilfried Pohnke from Pixabay.
Vaccines Now Cover Three Major Seasonal Respiratory Viruses
The White House also stated that the country is now better equipped than ever to face the looming seasonal respiratory threats. The U.S. now has vaccines covering COVID-19, the flu, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), marking a pivotal point in national healthcare.
Effective Immunization Remains Key
“Vaccination against COVID-19 is still the most effective way to prevent hospitalization, long-term health consequences, and death,” Biden emphasized. The President urged all Americans to get their shots updated, especially with new variants on the horizon.
EG.5 Variant Spreads Rapidly in the U.S.
As the CDC rolls out its updated booster guidelines, a new COVID-19 variant called EG.5 is on the rise. Making up about 17% of new COVID-19 cases in the U.S., it has surpassed the next most common lineage, XBB.1.16, which accounts for 16% of new cases, according to CDC data. Researchers are keenly investigating the characteristics of this new variant and its mutations.
Unknowns About the New EG.5 Variant
Scientists remain uncertain about the specific capabilities of the new EG.5 variant. The variant includes an extra mutation to its spike protein, which has also appeared in other coronavirus strains. It’s gaining traction worldwide, suggesting some form of evolutionary advantage.
New Offshoots of EG.5 Variant Raise Concerns
EG.5 now has a new offshoot, EG.5.1, which has an additional mutation to its spike protein and is also spreading rapidly. As we enter the colder months, the CDC’s updated booster recommendations come at a critical time in our ongoing battle against COVID-19.
In summary, the CDC’s new guidelines for COVID-19 boosters and the advent of emerging variants like EG.5 underscore the vital importance of staying immunized. With President Biden urging all Americans to get vaccinated, it’s more crucial than ever to keep up with your shots.