April 24, 2023
COVID-19 vaccine updates
On April 19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced updates to its COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. These changes include the following:
- Because we now have effective bivalent vaccines that include vaccines against both the original and an updated version of the virus, the monovalent (only original) mRNA COVID-19 vaccines will no longer be recommended for use in the United States.
- Everyone ages 6 years and older is recommended to receive an updated (bivalent) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of whether they previously completed their (monovalent) primary series.
- An additional updated (bivalent) vaccine dose may be given for adults ages 65 years and older and additional doses for people who are immunocompromised. This allows more flexibility for health care providers to administer additional doses to immunocompromised patients as needed.
- Individuals ages 6 years and older who have already received an updated (bivalent) mRNA vaccine do not need to take any action unless they are 65 years or older or are immunocompromised.
Appointments for bivalent COVID-19 vaccines or other vaccines at Lafene Health Center can be made on the myLAFENE+ patient portal or by calling 785-532-6544.