Lately we’ve heard quite a few updates related to the COVID-19 pandemic, masks, social distancing, and more.
COVID-19 vaccination tents at the Disneyland Resort ©Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG
We’ve gotten an update from the Orange County, Florida mayor about when masks and distancing rules may change, more adults are becoming eligible for the vaccine, and we’ve shared how Disney is providing vaccines to Cast Members. But, today we got an important update about COVID-19 vaccines and more shots that may be needed in the future.
According to CNBC, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla recently stated that people will “likely” need to get a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine within 12 months of being fully vaccinated, and people may need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 annually.
Specifically, Bourla said, “A likely scenario is that there will be likely a need for a third dose, somewhere between six and 12 months and then from there, there will be an annual revaccination, but all of that needs to be confirmed. And again, the variants will play a key role.”
Health and Safety Reminders
This is not the only time that someone has mentioned the potential need for revaccination. In February, the Johnson & Johnson CEO told CNBC that people may need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 annually.
More Reminders About Sanitizing Your Hands and More
Pfizer’s data has indicated that their vaccine was more than 91% effective at protecting against COVID-19 and more than 95% effective against severe disease up to 6 months after a person receives the second dose. Moderna’s vaccine has also been shown to be “highly effective at six months.”
But, researchers have said that more data is still needed to see whether protection lasts after those 6 months.
Health and Safety Sign
President Biden’s COVID-19 response chief science officer has also indicated that Americans “should expect to receive booster shots to protect against coronavirus variants.” The chief science officer also warned that the vaccines that are being administered currently are highly effective, but the variants could “challenge” the effectiveness of the shots.
Moderna’s CEO has indicated that the company is hoping to have a booster shot for its vaccine available this fall.
Hand Sanitizer
We’ll continue to keep an eye out for more updates.
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An MIT Technology Review article : Covid-19 immunity likely lasts for years.
A new study shows immune cells primed to fight the coronavirus should persist for a long time after someone is vaccinated or recovers from infection.
So, which is it? Shouldn’t we be trying to get exposed to COVID-19 now while we are vaccinated to produce a better longer term immune response. With the current adverse effects reports surrounding COVID-19 vaccines, I am not keen to get a booster shot.
It is difficult to figure out whether a booster shot is indeed needed or it is just the pharmaceutical companies trying to sell more product.