In a recent article in the Austin American-Statesman, Manish M. Naik, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Austin Regional Clinic, joined other area physicians to answer questions about the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines.
How are these vaccines different than the previous COVID-19 shots?
Right now, the predominate variant in the U.S. is KP.3.1.1, according to the CDC. The 2024-2025 Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines are based on the KP.2 strains, which are very similar to the current strain and previous strains—all of which are omicron variants. "We have every reason to believe it will be effective," said Dr. Naik, of the new vaccines.
Other questions posed and answered include:
- I had COVID-19 recently. Do I still need a vaccine? Yes, but wait 90 days after infection before getting vaccinated. Natural immunity lasts, and most places won't give a vaccine until at least two months after illness.
- I just got a COVID-19 shot. Do I need another? You must wait two months before getting the latest vaccine, which is updated for current variants.
- How many COVID-19 vaccines do I need? Adults and kids 5+ need one shot yearly. Children 6 months to 4 years may need a second dose. The CDC hasn't recommended a second shot for immunocompromised yet. See CDC recommendations.
- Why should I get the new COVID-19 vaccine? These vaccines are designed to keep the effects of the virus mild and allow your body to prevent a severe illness and hospitalization, Dr. Naik said.
- Is COVID-19 still going around? Yes. Texas still has a high level of the infection in our wastewater, and Travis County's most recent wastewater surveillance had a virus level at 77.4%.
- Can I get another vaccine with the COVID-19 vaccine? Yes. In fact, it's recommended to get the flu shot at the same time.
Key takeaways:
- Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine.
- The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect you from severe disease, hospitalization, and death.
- It is especially important to get your 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine if you are ages 65 and older, are at high risk for severe COVID-19, or have never received a COVID-19 vaccine.
- Vaccine protection decreases over time, so it is important to stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine.
Make an appointment to get your updated COVID-19 vaccine at ARC
We will start administering 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines during scheduled in-clinic appointments as soon as the week of September 9. Make an appointment with your doctor or APC using ARC MyChart or Help Me Book. Vaccine clinics for flu and COVID will start mid-September.