When the mRNA Covid Vaccines became available, scientists knew that the ability to change certain formulations to protect from the ever-changing virus would be important. Now that these changes have been accomplished, there are new Pfizer and Moderna COVID Omicron bivalent boosters in Maryland available near you!

The FDA has approved the use of two new boosters. The Omicron boosters target 2 versions of the Omicron variant: BA.4 and BA.5. These subvariants are the two most common with BA.5 being responsible for almost 90% of all current cases in the US.

With the release of the new Omicron boosters, there are a few things to understand about the subvariants and the boosters themselves. 

How is This COVID Omicron Bivalent Booster Different?

The new booster is a vaccine that is known as bivalent. This means that it actually has two mRNA messengers. The components target both the original virus and the BA.4 and BA.5 variants. 

How Do We Know the Booster is Safe?

The Omicron boosters were created and authorized to use based off of safety regulations and data from the original COVID vaccine. There was also new data provided from the trials of the original Moderna and Pzifer vaccines as well as the previous Omicron BA.1 booster.

How Will We Know if the Boosters are Effective?

We won’t know the answer to this question until the human trial data is complete. What we do know is that the FDA approved these boosters based off the history and safety of the previous vaccines and boosters. 

When Should You Get the New Booster?

According to the CDC, you should get your booster at least two months after your most recent COVID-19 vaccine. Use our contact form to schedule your vaccine or booster appointment.

Can You Get the New COVID Booster at the Same Time as the Flu Vaccine?

It is completely safe to get both vaccinations at the same time. Check out our flu shots clinic hours to come in!

It is never too late to get a covid vaccine or booster. To learn more about Omicron boosters in Maryland, please contact Bowie Internal Medicine Association.