Pfizer and Moderna Covid boosters are now available at pharmacies in the US, while the country has also reinstated its free Covid test program. The CDC and FDA recommend a single dose of the updated vaccine for individuals aged six months and older, with some children eligible for up to three doses. The CDC estimates that the Eris variant is responsible for nearly 30% of Covid cases in the US. Health authorities advise continued mask use to reduce transmission. It is important to seek testing if symptoms of Covid are experienced, and to isolate if testing positive.
UKHSA Chief Medical Advisor Susan Hopkins said, “While this is still very early data and more research is needed before we can be certain, it is encouraging to see an initial indication that BA.2.86 demonstrates similar levels of antibody escape compared to other variants circulating in the UK."
New mutant coronavirus subvariant BA.2.86 has landed in New Zealand – but experts say there’s no sign yet the freshly-detected “Pirola” represents a pandem