Title: Experts Weigh In on COVID-19 Booster Shots as Biden Administration Prepares Nationwide Rollout
Subtitle: FDA advisor advocates selective approach, while other countries differ on age eligibility
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In a recent statement, a senior advisor to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed that a majority of Americans may not require a booster shot for COVID-19. Dr. Paul Offit stated that the focus should be on administering additional doses to those individuals who face a higher risk of severe illness.
According to Dr. Offit, older individuals above the age of 75, those with chronic medical conditions, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems should be the top priority for booster shots. This targeted approach aims to provide maximum protection to those most vulnerable to COVID-19 complications.
However, despite differing opinions from other nations, the Biden Administration is expected to give the green light for a nationwide rollout of booster shots. While some countries suggest administering boosters only to adults over the age of 65, the US government is set to expand this eligibility to a broader age range.
While boosters are not covered by the federal government, most Americans can receive them for free through their health insurance. The cost of booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna is estimated to be between $110 to $130 per dose.
Last year’s booster rollout registered a low uptake, with less than 17% of eligible adults receiving the shot. To encourage a higher uptake this time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) advisory committee is scheduled to meet on September 12 to determine the specific groups that should be offered boosters.
The current booster is designed to target three variants, namely XBB.1.5, BA.2.86, and EG.5. These variants have been identified as potential threats to the effectiveness of the existing COVID-19 vaccines.
Dr. Offit has criticized the US’s broad approach to vaccinating everyone, asserting that the focus should instead be on those at the greatest risk. His recommendation is in line with the Biden Administration’s plan to allocate $1.4 billion towards COVID-19 drugs and vaccinations.
Although COVID-19 hospitalizations have seen an increase recently, the numbers remain lower than earlier this year. As the vaccination effort continues, experts emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant and following public health guidelines to prevent further surges in cases.
As the nation awaits the final decisions on booster eligibility, it is anticipated that a selective approach combined with increased awareness and accessibility will improve the uptake rates and ultimately contribute to the ongoing fight against COVID-19.
