Booster Shots for Covid 19

The debate goes on whether or not individuals who received their two Covid vaccinations should yet again receive another injection. We know by now Covid is very serious. Many think eight months after the second shot would be a good time for a booster shot. Others feel they are already protected for now with the two vaccines they have already received. Pfizer is the only vaccine currently that has an approved booster. It is not recommended that vaccines should be mixed from various companies since there is no knowledge of the efficacy of the new shot although it is probably harmless if they are mixed. Booster shots cause fatigue and sore arms just like the other two vaccines.

Since J and J vaccines came out late, their booster is not yet ready. Boosters are suggested to help protect against the Delta variant that is causing health issues. As of now, seven hundred thousand people have died from Covid in this country exceeding those who died from the Spanish Flu in 1918-1919. The added vaccinations are recommended for individuals who are immunocompromised. Such individuals with asthma, cancer, heart disease, obesity, health workers, teachers, fireman, police, and grocery store employees and those in nursing homes are encouraged to receive a booster shot. Also, people 65 or older, transplant patients, and those 50 to 64 if they have underlying health conditions are also encouraged to get the added protection.

We know when we go to the emergency department with a cut from something we stepped on, we are always asked when was our last tetanus shot because vaccines do lose their strength over time. Children need boosters as they get older for measles, mumps, and rubella, etc. As a retired teacher, I have had a flu shot every year most of my adult life and have never missed once. If I do get the flu, it’s intensity is significantly reduced because of my added protection from the vaccine. I can’t remember the last time I got the flu.

Merck recently announced its new oral Covid 19 antiviral pill. It has cut the risk of Covid hospitalizations or death by approximately 50%. This news may effect the number of individuals who receive a booster shot in the near future. The discussion continues about boosters and if they are at all necessary. What is your feeling concerning boosters? Please comment.

Victoria Kamar Olivett, Published Author

THE ADVENTURES OF FRANCIE FITZGERALD

Joshua Tree Publishing in Chicago