Young Booster
When the idea of a booster shot was introduced to us, most people assumed that only high-risk patients would need it. After all, we were already going to receive 2 doses, so a 3rd would be extreme. This was a normal thought to have, but things have changed quickly. Adults of all ages and sizes lined up for booster shots with 2 dangerous variants named Delta and Omicron looming around, and herd immunity couldn’t be achieved. With dangerously high caseloads and kids ready to return from their winter break nationwide, the FDA took action.
It was announced on Monday that the FDA approved booster shots for people aged 12 to 15 years old. This allows students to get their extra protection against the Omicron variant as schools haven’t had to deal with it as much until now, though precautions such as mask mandates are starting to be in effect. Boosters will help prevent possible school closures and help make a dent in COVID cases in the country as 1.9 million kids in this age group have tested positive during this pandemic. One concern is the risk of heart inflammation in kids receiving the vaccine, but studies in Israel show that no kids developed myocarditis, and that the risk of getting it is lower with a booster. Along with this, the FDA approved boosters for 5- to 11-year-olds that are immunocompromised, but studies show that elementary school children aren’t in need of boosters yet. Will this help schools in the long-term?
I am not a financial advisor and my comments should never be taken as financial advice. Investments come with risk, so always do your research and analysis beforehand.
