by Tonya L. Breaux-Shropshire, PhD, DNP, FNP, MPH
Paul Offit’s Questions About the COVID Booster. As Flu, RSV, and COVID continue to rise in the United States and elsewhere, you might be considering getting the vaccines. Of course, there is a vaccine for FLU and COVID and there is a COVID booster readily available. However, to date, there is no RSV vaccine available.
Surprisingly enough, research has shown that a well-fitting mask such as an N95 would decrease your chances of becoming infected with any of these viruses. Yet, many, including the high-risk groups, are not wearing masks unless it is mandated, go figure. If you don’t mind getting sick, take your chances and don’t wear a mask.
As we all know by now, vaccines do not prevent infection but are effective in reducing the risk of severe disease. There is some pushback about the COVID vaccine booster since it is variant-specific and less likely sustainable. Check out the latest questions about the COVID booster in the video below. Remember, being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 provides more than 90% protection against hospitalization and death. However, the Flu vaccine provides approximately 40-60% protection against hospitalization and death.
