With local COVID-19 case numbers dropping fast and mask mandates gone, most people are ready to move on from this pandemic. But the coronavirus isn’t static. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the highly-contagious omicron BA.2 variant is now driving 39% of new infections in the New York/New Jersey area. And epidemiologists foresee a possible April bump in infections.
Parents continue to wait for an approved COVID-19 vaccine for children under age five. Pfizer vaccine trials continue for the littlest kids and Moderna just submitted preliminary trial data, as the companies seek dosages that won’t cause side effects but will confer robust immunity. That’s vital because vaccine immunity wanes over time. In fact, Pfizer is asking the Food and Drug Administration to grant emergency authorization for yet another booster for seniors.
