If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
Everyone I know is getting Omicron. Does this mean the vaccines don’t work?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. COVID-19 vaccines are still acing their #1 job- preventing serious disease. TL;DR: Omicron is better at infecting people with immunity from vaccination or prior infection. But the vaccines (especially 3 doses) still *reduce* the risk of infection with Omicron, and *dramatically* reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. Vaccination is still the best Read more…
💥Breaking News – FDA Amends Pfizer EUA💥!!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
The FDA has amended the Pfizer emergency use authorization to: ❇️ Expand the use of booster doses to kids aged 12-15 years ❇️ Shorten the recommended time between second and booster dose to 5 months (instead of 6) in those aged 12 years and older ❇️ Allow kids 5-11 who have certain immunocompromising conditions to Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
News Alert! The CDC now recommends mRNA vaccines over the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
Everyone I know is getting Omicron. Does this mean the vaccines don’t work?
COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. COVID-19 vaccines are still acing their #1 job- preventing serious disease. TL;DR: Omicron is better at infecting people with immunity from vaccination or prior infection. But the vaccines (especially 3 doses) still *reduce* the risk of infection with Omicron, and *dramatically* reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. Vaccination is still the best Read more…
💥Breaking News – FDA Amends Pfizer EUA💥!!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
The FDA has amended the Pfizer emergency use authorization to: ❇️ Expand the use of booster doses to kids aged 12-15 years ❇️ Shorten the recommended time between second and booster dose to 5 months (instead of 6) in those aged 12 years and older ❇️ Allow kids 5-11 who have certain immunocompromising conditions to Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
News Alert! The CDC now recommends mRNA vaccines over the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
A: No. COVID-19 vaccines are still acing their #1 job- preventing serious disease. TL;DR: Omicron is better at infecting people with immunity from vaccination or prior infection. But the vaccines (especially 3 doses) still *reduce* the risk of infection with Omicron, and *dramatically* reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. Vaccination is still the best Read more…
💥Breaking News – FDA Amends Pfizer EUA💥!!
Families/Kids VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
The FDA has amended the Pfizer emergency use authorization to: ❇️ Expand the use of booster doses to kids aged 12-15 years ❇️ Shorten the recommended time between second and booster dose to 5 months (instead of 6) in those aged 12 years and older ❇️ Allow kids 5-11 who have certain immunocompromising conditions to Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
News Alert! The CDC now recommends mRNA vaccines over the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
The FDA has amended the Pfizer emergency use authorization to: ❇️ Expand the use of booster doses to kids aged 12-15 years ❇️ Shorten the recommended time between second and booster dose to 5 months (instead of 6) in those aged 12 years and older ❇️ Allow kids 5-11 who have certain immunocompromising conditions to Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
News Alert! The CDC now recommends mRNA vaccines over the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
News Alert! The CDC now recommends mRNA vaccines over the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
News Alert! The CDC now recommends mRNA vaccines over the Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine.
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
TL;DR: The Janssen vaccine is still definitely better than no vaccine at all, but the mRNA vaccine appears to be safer and more effective. If you haven’t gotten your first vaccine yet, Pfizer or Moderna is preferred. If you already got the first Janssen shot but haven’t yet got your booster, the mRNA is recommended Read more…
Why should we get a booster with the existing COVID vaccine when a new one is in the works for Omicron?
COVID Variants VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
A: Boosters with the original Pfizer and Moderna vaccines increase protection against the omicron variant…NOW. A few weeks ago we posted on results from Pfizer showing that: 🔵 A third dose of the original Pfizer vaccine increased neutralizing antibody titers against the omicron variant by 25-fold, compared to levels seen with only two doses 🔵 Read more…
Can I boost with an mRNA vaccine if I got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally?
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
A: Yes, you can. If you got Sinovac or Sinopharm originally, it won’t hurt to boost with an mRNA vaccine–and it might help. No one really knows what the BEST combination is at this point, but overall protection is higher for those who do opt for a different brand booster shot. And most important, there Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
Vaccines aren’t perfect, but they’re very good.
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
Recent detailed data from Malaysia shows deaths among the non-vaccinated were 10 times higher than for people who were fully vaccinated. The researchers looked closely at the 1,956 Malaysians who were fully vaccinated and yet died of COVID-19. Risk of death was higher for those who were older, male, or had health conditions like obesity, Read more…
FDA Expands Booster EUA to 16-17 Year Olds
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
➡️ The FDA just approved expansion of the booster EUA for Pfizer/BioNTech to 16-17 year olds, expected to be signed off by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky later today. Link to Original FB Post
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
OMICRON AND PFIZER/BIONTECH
COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
The trickle of Omicron data is quickly becoming a fountain ⛲. On the heels of yesterday’s Omicron studies, (see summary here) Pfizer today released data showing strong neutralization of Omicron after 3 doses of its vaccine, but a significant reduction for 2 doses. Highlights: ➡️ 2 doses showed significantly reduced neutralization titers against Omicron. ➡️ A Read more…
THIS JUST IN: Preliminary Omicron neutralizing antibody study
COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
⬇️ TL;DR: IN A LAB DISH (so NOT in real life), antibodies from vaccinated individuals (two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech), were significantly less effective at neutralizing Omicron compared to the original variant—about a 20-40-fold reduction in neutralization. While this is substantially more loss of neutralization than previous variants…this does NOT tell us how well the vaccines Read more…
Do COVID-19 vaccines promote the emergence of new variants?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. Since the recent Omicron news, we are hearing this myth make the rounds again. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news Read more…
Update on Novavax
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
One of the more recent additions to the global COVID-19 vaccine roster comes from Novavax, whose vaccine is poised to hit worldwide markets and hopefully make a big difference in the big problem of global vaccine equity. 🌏 Novavax’s shot uses a tried-and-true technology: it’s called a protein subunit or acellular vaccine. It’s the same Read more…
