Dear USET/USET SPF Family,
Earlier this week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) amended the emergency use authorizations (EUAs) for the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expressed support for these updates. These changes will allow additional flexibility for those at higher risk, while simplifying COVID-19 vaccination schedules.
Key Updates to the COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations:
- Monovalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines no longer recommended
- Additional bivalent booster doses now available for immunocompromised patients and adults 65 years and older
- A single bivalent booster dose is recommended for everyone 6 years and older
- Children 6 months to five years old should receive at least two COVID-19 vaccines, and at least one bivalent vaccine (depending on product used)
Schedules for COVID vaccinations have become complex, depending on age, previous COVID vaccination history, and whether immunocompromised or not. For specific COVID vaccine recommendations, please visit CDC Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines. There are no changes to current recommendations for the monovalent Novavax or Johnson & Johnson's Janssen COVID-19 vaccines. CDC plans to continue monitoring COVID-19 levels and vaccine effectiveness. In June, CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet again to assess the COVID-19 vaccine strains for the fall 2023 season.
For additional information or for clinical guidance, please see the sources below. The USET TEC is available to assist with any questions or concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us at usetepi@usetinc.org.
Sources
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