FDA approves new Moderna and Pfizer boosters

SPRINGFIELD, Mass (WWLP) – The Food and Drug Administration approved a new COVID booster today and it is expected to get rolled out in the next few days.

There has been a summer surge in COVID cases and it does not appear to be slowing down going into the fall.

Both Moderna and Pfizer have boosters for the newest variant of the omicron strand, KP2.

“The vaccine may not totally prevent COVID, but it should help you from getting a severe case of COVID, keeping you out of the hospital, keep you from getting sick,” said Chairman of Family Medicine at Baystate Health, Dr. Robert Baldor.

Especially if you are immuno-compromised, the medications may not be as effective.

“The elderly, folks with immuno-compromised conditions such as diabetes or being treated for cancer, they are at risk and even the medications, sometimes aren’t as helpful as they could be,” said Dr. Baldor.

Doctors recommend you get a flu shot in the fall months and with the new COVID booster coming out, they said you can get both at the same time.

Just like the flu shot is covered by most insurances, it is likely the COVID booster will be covered by most insurances, but if you have any concerns, it is recommended you contact your insurance.

According to Dr. Baldor, the flu is a winter cold, whereas COVID is a summer cold.

“For those that are particularly vulnerable, again, I would get this booster as soon as it is available. If you are otherwise healthy, I probably might want to wait until September or October that maximizes your immunity,” said Dr. Baldor.

With the surge and current variants, Baystate Health also just updated their mask policy and in certain parts of their health care centers require masks.

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