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Recent data from the CDC reveals that the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines diminishes over time, particularly with the rise of the Delta variant. While vaccination remains crucial to significantly reducing the risk of hospitalization and ensuring milder symptoms upon infection, this new evidence indicates a noticeable decline in protection as time goes on.
Insights from Recent Studies
Two studies released by the CDC this week provide insights into the vaccines’ performance against the Delta variant. One report examined COVID-19 cases in Los Angeles from May 1 to July 25, 2021, revealing that 25.3% of cases were among fully vaccinated individuals, while 3.3% were partially vaccinated, and a significant 71.4% of cases occurred in unvaccinated individuals.
Another study, focused on healthcare workers, showed that between December 14, 2020, and April 10, 2021, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines had about 90% efficacy in preventing infections. However, data obtained after the Delta variant’s emergence indicates that their effectiveness has dropped to 66%. Experts estimate that the adjusted efficacy for these vaccines now stands at approximately 80%.
Booster Dose Recommendations
In response to this data, the CDC and the White House plan to implement booster doses starting September 20, 2021, recommending that individuals who received the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines get a third shot eight months after their second dose. Officials also anticipate that Johnson & Johnson vaccine recipients may require a booster, pending results from an ongoing clinical trial.
Once authorized, booster shots will likely be administered first to nursing home residents, healthcare staff, and essential workers, followed by older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions. It is advised that individuals receive the same vaccine for their booster that they had previously.
The CDC, in a statement signed by Director Dr. Lisa Taylor and other medical leaders, acknowledged, “We are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease. Based on our latest assessment, the current protection against severe disease remains strong.”