New horizons for grassroots influence Compiled by Frank Porcelain
Epidemic prevention experts say most people should get a new Covid-19 booster dose as soon as possible, especially before a surge in cases is imminent in late autumn and winter. The cold and dry climate makes it easier for the virus to spread. The vaccine protection will slowly increase within 2 to 3 weeks after the injection. Therefore, if you get the vaccine in early October, you can expect to have full defense by mid or late October. The protection usually lasts for about 3 or 4 months before slowly beginning to wane.
In reality, there is no best time to get vaccinated, but rather it will depend on when you last had a Covid vaccine, how recently you were infected with Covid and whether you are at high risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus.
If you have not had Covid or been vaccinated in recent months and are in good health, White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha advises that it is best to get vaccinated before Halloween. "Because Thanksgiving is three weeks after Halloween, and then Christmas, there will be a lot of travel and gatherings of family and friends," Dr. Jha said. It is possible to get the flu vaccine at the same time as your Covid booster dose, but if you can wait, experts recommend getting your Covid booster dose first and then waiting until late October or early November to get your flu shot.
The picture is taken from: (schematic diagram 123rf)
Pfizer 's BA.5 next-generation vaccine is set to be used for 12 years and above, Moderna is for 18 years and above. The side effects are similar to those experienced with previous Covid vaccines and it is best to take the day off and rest at home to prevent any serious side effects. If you're concerned about disrupting your work schedule, schedule your vaccination on a Friday or Saturday so you have at least one weekend day off.
If you have been infected with Covid-19 in the past 3 months, US CDC consultants recommend that you wait 3 months after testing negative before receiving the BA.5 next-generation vaccine. Research shows that waiting several months after infection before getting vaccinated leads to a stronger immune response and lower rates of reinfection before vaccination.
If you have received the Covid vaccine within the past two months, it is best to have the primary vaccine first and wait at least two months after the last Covid vaccine before receiving the BA.5 next-generation vaccine. The two-month interval ensures that the protection of the original vaccine is fully utilized and reduces the chance of severe illness and hospitalization during the winter months.
If you are the elderly, immunocompromised, or other high-risk groups, because the risk of severe illness is high, Dr. Jha recommends vaccination with the BA.5 next-generation vaccine immediately to obtain adequate protection immediately.
