COVID-19: Vaccine Updates + Omicron

It’s that time of the year again with holidays, crowds, gatherings — which is usually lots of fun. In the context of the COVID variants and the on going global pandemic it can be cause for concern. As always here are some points to know:

  • All people are approved for COVID boosters. If you have had 1 series of a vaccine (2 shots for Pfizer and Moderna, 1 shot for J+J) you are eligible to get a booster.

  • The booster gives you a boost in your immunity—regardless of previous infection; even if you have had COVID, it is important and helpful to get your vaccination series. This gives your body the extra support it needs to have strong protection incase it encounters the virus again in a different form (ie., variants).

  • All children 5 and up can get vaccinated. It is a recommendation widely supported by different medical communities.

  • Get your flu shot. For the exact same reasons you get your COVID shot.

    • Having a flu shot reduces risk of severe flu/hospitalization/death

    • Flu season creates a strain on the medical system (making it harder to take care of COVID patients)

    • Flu is contagious. Having a shot protects the most vulnerable in our communities (elderly, children and pregnant women) who die of the flu at higher rates than other populations.

  • Omicron Variant is circulating in places across the globe, including the US. Not much is known about the virulence (how severe the illness is when you get it) or the transmission rate (more or less contagious) at this time. We should know more in 2-4 weeks.

  • Keep up distancing and masks, especially when indoors and in crowded spaces, regardless of vaccine status. It helps slow the spread the virus which will inevitably worsen during the cold months.

  • Stay home when you are sick, don’t hesitate to get tested. As always try to stay home and call your doctor when you are sick, whether it is COVID or not. Check in with your doctor about whether or not you need a COVID test.

Keeping up with new information can be tough. Keeping your family safe and healthy can be tough. Let us help support you with excellent medical care, so you have one less thing to worry about this holiday season. Sign up with Kahn Health today: Sign Up Today!