The Effectiveness of Bivalent mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines in Preventing Thromboembolic Events

In a constantly evolving COVID-19 landscape, recent studies have offered a new perspective on vaccine effectiveness against COVID-19-related thromboembolic events. Published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the study primarily focused on two key populations: Medicare enrollees aged 65 years and older and adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis.

The Study and Its Findings

The study estimated the vaccine effectiveness of bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in preventing COVID-19-related thromboembolic events. It found that the effectiveness of the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine dose against these events was 47% in Medicare enrollees aged 65 years and older, and 51% in adults aged 18 years and older with ESRD receiving dialysis.

Interestingly, the study also observed that the vaccines' protective effect seems to wane over time. However, this observation requires further research, as the current study only assessed two periods since the last vaccine dose.

Understanding Thromboembolic Events and COVID-19

Thromboembolic events refer to conditions where blood clots form in the blood vessels and subsequently block blood flow. In the context of COVID-19, these events are a serious and sometimes fatal complication. Thus, understanding the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against such events is of vital importance, especially for high-risk populations.

Advantages of Bivalent mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines

Compared to original monovalent COVID-19 vaccines, bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines have shown promising results in preventing thromboembolic events. The additional advantage of a recent bivalent dose over previous receipt of original monovalent doses aligns with the reported lower incidence of COVID-19-related thromboembolic events in vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated individuals.

Importance of Staying Up-to-Date with Vaccination

One key takeaway from the study is the crucial importance of staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccination to prevent complications, including thromboembolic events. The study's finding was consistent among Medicare beneficiaries, including those who are immunocompromised. Therefore, adults, particularly those over the age of 65 and those with ESRD, should remain vigilant and ensure they receive their booster doses as recommended.

Conclusion

While the study offers valuable insights into the effectiveness of bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in preventing COVID-19-related thromboembolic events, it also emphasizes the need for further research. As the COVID-19 landscape continues to evolve, staying up-to-date with vaccination remains a key defense against severe complications, including thromboembolic events, particularly for high-risk populations.