Director's Suite: New FDA Approved COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters
Veterans Health Administration sent this bulletin at 09/01/2022 02:16 PM EDT
Veterans,
The COVID-19 virus is continuing to evolve, and VA North Texas Health Care System is adapting control measures accordingly. New studies have shown that the currently used mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are less effective preventing the currently circulating variants of the virus (called BA.4 and BA.5).
Newer (so-called “bivalent” or “updated”) mRNA vaccines have therefore been authorized for use by the FDA yesterday and will be available at VANTHCS within the next week.
Therefore:
- We are no longer authorized to use the older mRNA vaccines for boosters. We unfortunately will have to cancel appointments for boosters until we’re ready to administer the newer ones.
- Those who are eligible for a booster dose of the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine will receive the new bivalent vaccines.
- You can complete their primary series (first two doses) with the older mRNA vaccines. Boosters will only be given with the updated vaccines. You are eligible for these updated vaccines if:
- It has been at least two months since you have completed the primary series.
- It has been at least two months since you have gotten your most recent booster with the previous vaccines.
We will continue to update you as more information becomes available.
Keep updated & let us know how we're doing. |
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