Only 7% of adults and 2% of children in the U.S. have been vaccinated in the last six weeks.
The HV.1 variant of COVID-19 is now the dominant strain in the U.S., according to CDC estimates.
U.S. health officials recommend everyone aged six months and older to get the new COVID-19 booster, which has been reformulated to match currently circulating variants.
The HV.1 variant of COVID-19 has become the dominant strain in the U.S., according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This variant is particularly prevalent in the mid-Atlantic region, where it accounts for approximately a third of all cases.
In response to the evolving situation, U.S. health officials have recommended that everyone aged six months and older receive the new COVID-19 booster. This booster has been reformulated to match the currently circulating variants, including the HV.1 variant. The vaccines are expected to offer cross-protection against newer variants, including the Omicron XBB.1.5 variant.
Despite these recommendations, the uptake of the new shots has been slow. Only 7% of adults and 2% of children in the U.S. have been vaccinated in the last six weeks. The initial vaccine rollout faced issues such as high demand, cancelled appointments, supply delays, and insurance obstacles.
The article also mentions the authorization of Novavax shots for individuals aged 12 and above, and the ongoing debate about whether the updated vaccine is a booster shot. The article also highlights the dissatisfaction of Utah's state immunization director with the federal government, the denial of claims by U.S. Health and Human Services, and the detection of the 'Pirola' variant in wastewater.
The situation continues to evolve, and health officials are closely monitoring the spread of the HV.1 variant and other emerging strains.
It discusses the science behind masking, the severity of new strains, vaccination rates, and the CDC's recommendations for preventative treatment.
It also mentions the authorization of Novavax shots for individuals aged 12 and above, and the ongoing debate about whether the updated vaccine is a booster shot.
The article also highlights the dissatisfaction of Utah's state immunization director with the federal government, the denial of claims by U.S. Health and Human Services, and the detection of the 'Pirola' variant in wastewater.
Other topics include misconceptions about women's health, the potential of generative AI in healthcare, a perceived primary care shortage, and a new master's program at Rosalind Franklin University aimed at alleviating nursing shortages.