ATLANTA — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a COVID-19 shot specifically targeting the BA.5 variant, which is responsible for 90% of all cases.
Two versions of the booster, one Moderna and one Pfizer for people ages 12 and up are expected to get emergency use authorization by the end of the week.
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The White House said the shots could slow another surge in the fall and winter.
Channel 2′s Matt Johnson talked to a pharmacist about who should get the shots and when.
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Dr. Karl Simon is already preparing for shipments to arrive at Suwanee Pharmacy
“We’re really looking forward for an uptick of people getting the COVID-19 booster,” Simon said. “The virus may continue to mutate but again with this new booster that will help reduce the symptoms and reduce hospitalization.”
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If you’ve had two shots and its been two months since your last COVID-19 shot, you will be eligible for the booster when its available.
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention panel is expected to meet and sign off on the vaccine, which would clear the way for people to start getting the shot right after Labor Day Weekend.
FDA officials said they are hopeful the boosters will provide longer protection than previous booster shots.
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