COVID-19 News and Updates

Hello all,

Nina Duggan here with the latest COVID-19 news and updates.

This week we will be discussing updates to the pediatric bivalent booster, COVID-19 immunity, and a common question about vaccination while pregnant.

COVID Communication:

Pfizer and Moderna Bivalent Booster for Kids 5 and Under

Pfizer and Moderna’s bivalent booster was just authorized for use in the younger children age group. Pfizer’s booster is available for children 6 months-4 years and who have completed their three-dose primary series more than two months ago. Moderna’s is available similarly to children who have completed their original series, aged 6 months -5 years of age. This means that children within that age group are now eligible for the omicron-adjusted booster shot.

It is highly recommended that all who are eligible for the bivalent booster but who have not yet received one get one at their earliest convenience.

Vaccination location information can be obtained through vaccines.gov.

COVID in the News:

State of COVID-19 in Maine

COVID-19 cases have decreased by 35% as compared with two weeks ago. Test positivity has decreased by 31%, putting Maine at a statewide average test positivity of 8.7%. Hospitalizations have decreased by 12%. ICU admissions have remained static, with deaths increasing.

Immunity from Previous Infection vs. Immunity from Vaccination

New data suggests that those who were infected with COVID-19 have a weakened immune response to COVID vaccination. This newly available research challenges older data that suggested that a COVID infection enhances immune response.

Health experts have long warned that repeat COVID infections weaken the immune system and damage the body. What’s more, immunity from infection is not as protective as vaccination. Being vaccinated against COVID-19 is a great way to protect yourself without damaging your body and without incurring the risks of long COVID.

If you have been infected it is still worth getting vaccinated with the current vaccine to prevent future infections.

Source: CNBC Health and Science “If you had Covid before you were vaccinated, you might have less immunity than you think, study says”.

COVID Question: If You Were Vaccinated While Pregnant, Does Your Baby Need a Vaccine?

If you received your vaccine while pregnant, do you still need to get your baby vaccinated against COVID-19? The short answer is, yes, it is highly recommended. While getting vaccinated while pregnant does pass down the antibodies you generate to your baby, the vaccine provides greater protection still. Babies who become eligible at six months can receive their primary vaccination series.

Source: COVID Vax Project “Question of the Week”.

Featured in the Field:

Maine Equal Justice

Maine Equal Justice focuses on many issues that affect Mainers daily-from health care, to housing, food and income insecurity, and childcare and training. They have many helpful resources available on their website, including much to do with the end of the Public Health Emergency (e.g. how to prepare for changes to SNAP, etc.).

They can be found on their website, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Sign up here to receive Nina’s COVID-19 updates via email.

Follow Healthy Acadia on TikTok (@healthyacadia) for more updates!

If you or anyone you know have questions or concerns about COVID-19 or the available vaccines please call or text our COVID-19 Peer Support Line at 207-271-6023, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.