With more than half of U.S. states reporting “very high” levels of COVID-19 in wastewater, many Americans are faced with a difficult decision: should they get a booster shot now, or wait for an updated version of the vaccine? Dr. Jeffrey Kopin, chief medical officer for Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, shared his insights during a recent interview, offering guidance on how to navigate this complex situation.
The decision largely hinges on individual health factors, according to Dr. Kopin. People over 75, or those with underlying health conditions that make them more vulnerable to severe COVID-19, may benefit from getting the booster shot sooner rather than later. For them, the additional protection could be critical in avoiding serious illness.
Healthy individuals might still want to consider getting the booster shot if they have plans that could significantly increase their exposure to the virus, such as international travel. Dr. Kopin explained that getting vaccinated a week or two before a major trip can cut the chances of infection by up to 50%, thanks to a short-term surge in antibodies after vaccination.
However, this heightened protection is temporary. While the vaccine remains effective in preventing severe illness over time, its ability to prevent infection drops off after a few weeks. Dr. Kopin emphasized that even though this initial period offers the best defense against catching the virus, the vaccine continues to play an important role in reducing the severity of the disease.
Looking ahead, an updated COVID booster targeting the KP.2 strain is expected to be available soon, potentially by next month. The CDC advises most people to get the updated vaccine alongside their flu shot in the fall.
Ultimately, the decision to get a booster now or wait depends on individual risk factors, with older adults and those with compromised immune systems needing to stay up to date on vaccinations, while younger and healthier individuals may already have sufficient immunity to avoid serious illness.
