TODAY: FDA Approves Updated mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines to Target Current Variants

The FDA has approved and authorized updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season, specifically targeting the Omicron KP.2 strain. These vaccines, produced by Moderna and Pfizer, are designed to offer better protection against the currently circulating variants, aiming to reduce severe outcomes like hospitalization and death.

The new vaccines are available for various age groups, with specific dosing recommendations depending on age and prior vaccination status. The FDA encourages eligible individuals to receive the updated vaccine to maintain strong immunity, particularly given the waning protection from previous doses.

The updated vaccines include Comirnaty and Spikevax, now approved for individuals aged 12 and older, with emergency use authorization for those as young as 6 months. The FDA will continue to monitor and assess COVID-19 vaccine formulations, potentially updating them annually, similar to the flu vaccine.

For detailed information on the new vaccine recommendations, read the FDA’s official press release.

Immunize.org: Key Resources for Healthcare Professionals

Immunize.org offers a robust resource designed to help healthcare professionals build and maintain strong vaccination skills. This comprehensive toolkit includes the latest tools, training materials, and references to ensure you stay current on vaccine practices.

Explore the resources to enhance your vaccination knowledge and keep your skills up to date. Access it here.

Small Talks Series: Real-World Vaccine Campaign Insights

What Makes a Successful Vaccine Campaign: Thoughts from the Field

Join our upcoming Small Talks Series to hear frontline professionals from diverse settings share their successes and challenges with vaccine campaigns.

August 27 | 12:00-12:45 pm ET

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COVID Cases Rise, But Vaccination Rates Stagnate

COVID-19 cases among nursing home residents have continued to climb, reaching 8.7 per 1,000 as of August 4. Despite increasing numbers, vaccination rates remain static, with only 31% of residents up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccines as of August 11, 2024.

The CDC is urging an additional 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine dose for adults aged 65 and older, especially to protect those most at risk of severe illness. This booster should be administered at least 4 months after the previous dose.

As cases rise, it's more important than ever to assess and offer vaccination at every opportunity to help keep your community safe.

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Shot of Knowledge: Vaccine Q&A

Where can I find the most current vaccine recommendations?

Vaccine recommendations in the U.S. are provided by two key national organizations: the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Infectious Diseases. For the latest ACIP guidelines, visit the CDC’s ACIP Vaccine Recommendations and Guidelines. AAP recommendations are available in the AAP Red Book and on the AAP website.

Where can I find a comprehensive listing of contraindications and precautions to vaccination?

For a thorough resource on vaccine contraindications and precautions, the CDC offers an excellent online guide: Vaccine Recommendations and Guidelines.

For more vaccine FAQs, visit immunize.org. Visit our WAVE page for the updated immunization schedules.

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