(NewsNation) — The pandemic may be long over, but health experts are encouraging the American public to receive the latest COVID booster shots.
Child vaccination rates may be faltering post-pandemic, but the CDC is still recommending everyone older than 6 months receive an updated COVID shot.
“The virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, is always changing and protection from COVID-19 vaccines declines over time,” the CDC’s website says.
“Receiving an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine can restore and enhance protection against the virus variants currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States.”
CDC director Dr. Mandy Cohen says getting vaccinated is the “top recommendation” for avoiding respiratory illnesses.
“Make a plan now for you and your family to get both updated flu and COVID vaccines this fall, ahead of the respiratory virus season,” she said.
Dr. Chin-Hong, a professor in the University of California San Francisco Health’s infectious disease division, told the New York Times there is reason to do so.
Chin-Hong told the Times those who receive the boosters currently available could limit the possibility of getting COVID for multiple weeks.
“It will give you more confidence that your plans won’t be disrupted,” Dr. Chin-Hong told the outlet.