The United States will begin widely distributing Covid-19 booster shots next month as new data shows that vaccine protection wanes over time, top U.S. health officials announced Wednesday. It’s now “very clear” that immunity starts to fall after the initial two doses, and with the dominance of the delta variant, “we are starting to see evidence of reduced protection against mild and moderate disease,” according to the statement signed by CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky, acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock, White House chief medical advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci and other U.S. health leaders.

“Based on our latest assessment, the current protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death could diminish in the months ahead, especially among those who are at higher risk or were vaccinated during the earlier phases of the vaccination rollout.”

The booster shot “will boost your immune response,” President Joe Biden said later Wednesday in a speech at the White House. “It will increase your protection from Covid-19.” Biden also addressed criticism from some health advocates who say the U.S. should focus on sending vaccine doses to countries facing shortages, rather than prioritizing booster shots for Americans.

News Source : WION