What You Need to Know - Week of November 7th

2. Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine and Booster

The Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of a fourth COVID-19 vaccine and booster from Novavax! The Novavax vaccine is 90% effective against mild to moderate cases of COVID-19. Using a traditional protein-based vaccine that uses only part of the virus that is delivered directly to the cells, Novavax differs from the mRNA approach taken by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson and Johnson. All Individuals ages 12 and older are eligible for the two shot primary series, and can get the second shot three to eight weeks after their initial vaccine. 

In October 2022, the FDA approved the Novavax booster for individuals ages 18 and older, although it may not be as effective in protecting against newer variants of COVID-19. The protein-based vaccine allows individuals who weren’t able to get the other vaccines due to health conditions the opportunity to get vaccinated. Looking to get the Novavax vaccine, or other COVID-19 vaccines? Check out vaccines.gov for COVID-19 vaccines, boosters, and flu shots near you! 

3. RSV and the 'tripledemic'

A recent increase of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a contagious respiratory virus that affects the lungs and breathing passages, among young children in the United States has sparked a discussion about the possibility of RSV, COVID-19, and influenza to create a ‘tripledemic’ this winter.  Although vaccines are available for COVID-19 and the Influenza virus, there are no vaccines available for RSV, making preventative measures essential to decreasing the spread of RSV. 

Who does RSV most affect?

• RSV can cause severe infection in babies 12 months and younger, older adults, people with heart and lung disease, or individuals who are immunocompromised. 

How is RSV spread?

• RSV is spread through the droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can live on surfaces for a few hours, and can also be spread when a person touches the contaminated surface. 

What are the symptoms of RSV?

• The symptoms for RSV, COVID-19, and the flu can look very similar in children and young adults. Symptoms include: 
  • Congestion.
  • Cough.
  • Runny nose.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Fever.
  • Headache.

How severe is RSV?

• Most people recover from RSV within one to two weeks, although younger children and older adults are more likely to face severe cases of RSV. ​​RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs) in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States.

How long is someone contagious with RSV?

• Two to eight days following exposure, an individual is typically  contagious and can spread RSV to others for an additional three to eight days. 

What precautions should I take to avoid getting RSV?

• Covering your coughs and sneezes, frequently washing your hands, wearing a mask, and avoiding close contact with others who are sick can greatly reduce the potential of contracting RSV. These precautions also help fight against the spread of COVID-19 and Influenza virus!