With the news out that pharmaceutical company Pfizer was seeing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for emergency approval of a COVID-19 vaccine booster that would target the Delta variant that is spreading across much of the country, many are wondering if such a booster is necessary for those fully vaccinated since they started being circulated around the new year.

As a caregiver, it’s important for you to have all the information available in order to best take care of your loved one. Talking to their doctor is the best approach, but there is plenty of good information available to help you make an informed decision as well.

Centers Choice Home Care has a look at what the research shows and doesn’t show about the need for a COVID-19 booster vaccine.

U.S. Agencies to Pfizer: Not So Fast

In response to the news that Pfizer would seek approval for the booster, the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a joint statement saying that there is no evidence that a booster shot is necessary yet, as the original two-shot series has still proved to be effective in those who participated in the initial clinical trials.

“We are prepared for booster doses if and when the science demonstrates that they are needed,” the statement read in part.

Effective, but Not Necessary

In Israel, those with weakened immune systems will begin receiving a third shot. Experts say that another shot will add to the efficacy of the vaccine, but the two-shot series continues to be very effective in most who have taken it, as it is around 95% effective in preventing a serious case of COVID-19 and nearly eliminates the threat of death from the virus.

The Delta variant has allowed cases in some parts of the U.S. to double from June to July, but hospitalizations and deaths are occurring almost exclusively among unvaccinated people. The best way to prevent serious complications from COVID-19 continues to be to get vaccinated.

Researchers believe that a booster shot may eventually be necessary years down the road, but while the effectiveness of the original two doses continues to be strong, it’s not something that people need to worry about right now.

 

To learn more about Centers Choice Home Care and all the services they offer, visit CentersChoice.com.