US starts booster shots of COVID-19 vaccine by September 20

WASHINGTON, Aug 18 (KUNA) -- The US announced Wednesday that it plans to provide booster shots of the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines by September 20. The current plan only includes those who have taken the second dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.
US health officials, including CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky and FDA Acting Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock, released a statement saying, "The available data make very clear that protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection begins to decrease over time following the initial doses of vaccination." "In association with the dominance of the Delta variant, we are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease," added the statement.
"Current protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death could diminish in the months ahead, especially among those who are at higher risk or were vaccinated during the earlier phases of the vaccination rollout. For that reason, we conclude that a booster shot will be needed to maximize vaccine-induced protection and prolong its durability." It added, "We are prepared to offer booster shots for all Americans beginning the week of September 20 and starting 8 months after an individual's second dose." The plan, which applies only to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, called for all Americans to get a booster shot eight months after receiving their second doses.
The officials said they expect a booster shot will be needed for people who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, but they are still reviewing data and will announce plans at a later date. (end) rsr.gta