"Should You Consider the New COVID Booster? Insights from OhioHealth's Dr. Joe Gastaldo"

 

As we approach the fall season, the topic of a new COVID-19 booster shot has resurfaced. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently granted approval for the next generation of COVID shots, which  have been updated to address the variants currently in circulation. In the following weeks, these booster shots may become accessible in Ohio.

In light of this development, we reached out to Dr. Joe Gastaldo, the familiar face who has provided valuable insights throughout the pandemic as the medical director of infectious diseases for OhioHealth. Dr. Gastaldo shared crucial information about the new booster, its availability,  and when individuals should consider getting it. Although additional federal guidance is anticipated, Dr. Gastaldo strongly suggests that anyone eligible for the original COVID vaccines should also consider receiving this latest dose.

"The importance of getting this booster cannot be overstated," emphasized Dr. Gastaldo. "The virus remains present in our communities, and we must remain vigilant in the face of uncertainties."

Here's what else Dr. Gastaldo had to say regarding the latest COVID vaccine:

When should Ohio residents consider receiving the new booster shot? Dr. Gastaldo anticipates that the new COVID shot will be distributed to pharmacies and healthcare providers across the nation shortly. Once approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the booster could become available within days. According to Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, supplies of the updated vaccine are expected to be accessible to providers by the end of the week. Notably, vaccines will continue to be readily available to Ohio residents, including those without insurance.

"If you have medical insurance, including Medicare or Medicaid, vaccines should be covered as a preventive health service, potentially resulting in no out-of-pocket expenses," shared Vanderhoff. "Uninsured individuals can benefit from various programs to ensure they receive vaccines free of charge."

However, the timing of the next COVID jab varies from person to person. Dr. Gastaldo advises that individuals who have recently had COVID can wait between four to six months before considering the new booster, as the disease temporarily enhances immunity. On the other hand, Ohioans aged 65 and above and those who are immunocompromised should prioritize getting the booster immediately. For relatively healthy individuals, timing the booster around holiday gatherings is an option.

Does the new booster protect against newer variants? The answer is yes. Extensive testing has confirmed the effectiveness of the new COVID shot in preventing severe illness from newer variants, including the XBB.1.5 strain and the eg.5 variant. Similar to the annual adjustment of the flu vaccine, the latest COVID shot has been reformulated to target the most likely variants expected to circulate during the fall and winter.

Dr. Gastaldo acknowledges the possibility of additional unknown strains emerging, but he affirms that the new booster has demonstrated the ability to defend against serious infections caused by the latest variants. "We make the best predictions we can given the variety of variants out there," he stated.

How safe is the new booster, and can it be administered alongside other shots? Dr. Gastaldo reassures the public that it is safe to receive the new COVID booster and the flu shot simultaneously, just as in previous years. Eligible Ohio residents can even consider receiving the COVID booster, the flu shot, and a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during a single visit to their doctor's office or local pharmacy.

RSV vaccines, which combat another respiratory illness affecting infants and the elderly, have become available for the first time this year. Dr. Gastaldo encourages Ohioans aged 65 and older, as well as expectant mothers in their third trimester, to consider getting vaccinated for RSV.

The latest COVID boosters maintain the same safety standards as earlier versions of the vaccine, with mRNA technology being utilized, as in the original Pfizer and Moderna shots. The difference lies in the genetic makeup of the formula, which has been optimized to better target the latest variants.

Dr. Gastaldo expressed his confidence in recommending these shots, emphasizing the rigorous scrutiny and evaluation that ensures the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines. "I have a lot of confidence in the process that gets us these vaccines," he affirmed.

                        

In conclusion, as the new COVID booster becomes available, individuals in Ohio and beyond are encouraged to consider their eligibility and consult with healthcare professionals for guidance. Staying informed and making informed decisions regarding vaccinations remains crucial in our ongoing battle against COVID-19 and its variants.