Situation
In LA County, SARS-CoV-2 cases and hospitalizations have been increasing. Older adults and persons with weakened immune systems are at greatest risk for hospitalization and death from COVID-19. In addition, healthy children and adults can still experience severe disease due to COVID-19.
COVID-19 vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality. The new “updated” (2023-2024 formula) monovalent mRNA vaccines provide protection against the Omicron variant XBB.1.5 and all its related sub lineages, including BA.2.86 and EG.5. As new SARS-CoV-2 strains emerge and levels of neutralizing antibodies from previous infection and vaccinations decline, vaccination provides enhanced protection against the variants currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the US.
On September 11, the FDA released their decision on the use of these updated vaccines. The updated Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines (2023-2024 formula) are approved for individuals 12 years of age and older and are authorized under emergency use for individuals 6 months through 11 years of age. The bivalent mRNA vaccines are no longer authorized for use. Novavax vaccines are still authorized for use for persons aged 12 years and older while an updated Novavax vaccine is under FDA review.
On September 12, the CDC recommended that everyone 6 months and older get a 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine if they have not received a dose in the past 2 months. The COVID-19 vaccine recommendations* have been simplified:
- People ages 5 years and older get a single dose of the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of their prior vaccination history.
- Children 6 months through 4 years of age get at least one dose of the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine. They may need additional doses based on their prior COVID-19 vaccine history.
- People who are 6 months of age or older who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should get at least one dose of the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine. They may receive additional doses.
COVID-19 vaccine distribution has transitioned from a federal procurement and distribution model to a public/private model. This means that the vaccines are obtained through traditional procurement channels. COVID-19 vaccines should be provided to all patients at no cost. Coverage will be as follows:
- For insured patients, vaccine is covered by private insurers, MediCal, Medi Care Part B, and Medicare Part D.
- For uninsured adults and adults whose insurance does not cover all COVID-19 vaccine costs, vaccine will be available through the Bridge Access Program.
- For uninsured/underinsured children, vaccines will be available through the California Vaccines for Children Program (VFC).
