CDC Contemplates Spring COVID Booster Shot for Vulnerable Groups

The Potential Recommendation for a Spring COVID Booster Shot

As the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is contemplating recommending another COVID booster shot in the spring. This recommendation is particularly meant for individuals vulnerable to severe illness, such as those aged 65 and older and people with weakened immune systems. The CDC advisory panel is expected to vote on this recommendation during a meeting on Feb. 28.source

Targeting the XBB.1.5 and JN.1 Subvariant

Experts suggest that the proposed spring booster would be the same shot approved last fall, specifically targeting the XBB.1.5 subvariant. Interestingly, this shot also works well against the JN.1 subvariant, which is currently the leading cause of most COVID infections in the United States.source

Decline in COVID Hospitalizations and Deaths

Alongside the discussion of the spring booster shot, the CDC is also monitoring the decrease in emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths from COVID. The vaccination rates for people ages 65 and older are notably higher, and research indicates that individuals who received the latest booster shot were 54% less likely to be infected with COVID this winter.source

The Rationale for the Spring Booster

According to experts, the idea of a spring booster shot is backed by evidence showing that the protection from vaccines or previous infection wanes after four to six months. Even high-risk groups, such as transplant patients, are experiencing vaccine fatigue. It is generally recommended for high-risk patients to wait at least two months after a COVID vaccination or infection before getting another shot.source

Updates on COVID Guidelines and New Vaccines

Alongside the discussions about the spring booster, there have been updates on long COVID incidence in the US, a new COVID antiviral candidate, soaring nonmedical vaccine exemption rates in Texas schools, and confirmed cases of whooping cough in Hawaii. The CDC plans to change its COVID isolation guidelines and recommend using clinical symptoms to determine when to end isolation. The agency acknowledges the changing COVID landscape and the necessity for more practical guidelines.source