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Omicron, a new COVID-19 variant of concern, has been detected in all regions of the world, including North America. While research and clinical observations on the new strain are underway, it is not yet known what impact, if any, omicron will have on the immune response, transmissibility, or specific COVID-19 treatments.
The emergence of omicron is a reminder to take important steps to protect yourself against COVID-19.
"The answer is masking and boosters," says Dr. Gregory Poland, head of Mayo Clinic's Vaccine Research Group.
Dr. Poland is encouraged by vaccine booster rates in the U.S. "In a relatively short period of time, about 36% of adults who are eligible have indeed gotten a booster," says Dr. Poland. "There's plenty of vaccine available. So in the strongest possible terms, I would recommend getting that booster."
Adults who are six months past completing their initial Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination series are eligible to receive a booster dose, as are adults who are two months past completing their initial dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
On the Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Poland discusses the omicron variant and COVID-19 boosters, and he answers some listener questions.
To practice safe social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, this interview was conducted using video conferencing. The sound and video quality are representative of the technology used. For the safety of its patients, staff and visitors, Mayo Clinic has strict masking policies in place. Anyone shown without a mask was recorded prior to COVID-19 or recorded in an area not designated for patient care, where social distancing and other safety protocols were followed.
Research disclosures for Dr. Gregory Poland.
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Information in this post was accurate at the time of its posting. Due to the fluid nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientific understanding, along with guidelines and recommendations, may have changed since the original publication date.
For more information and all your COVID-19 coverage, go to the Mayo Clinic News Network and mayoclinic.org.
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IMO To get vaccinated to protect others is not in line with why the vaccine was primarily developed or approved. The person next to me has to protect themselves as I have to acknowledge that every person's different and there is no assurance of no bad effects from getting vaccinated (plus can't sue government or manf's) People also can exercise a lot more control over how they are exposed. I can't agree it is a question of selfishness, because the first thing I think of, is how I might protect others, but I also consider all the facts and the options as they relate to that. If you are truly that compromised and are not vaccinated, why? If you are, you still should assess every situation you put yourself into.
RE: the Omicron strain, seems like some relevant questions are; will there be a different vaccine developed that will be better? Is that the basis to hold off on getting a current booster? I expect, and hope that clarity in that area will come in the next two weeks...
@joedlh I can certainly understand your concerns and desire for the booster at the same time. What is the commitment and direction you've received from the trial with regard to this given your concern for your personal health and well-being?
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3 ReactionsThe last I heard from my research contact was in an email response to my query about boosters. That was several weeks ago. (I couldn't find a copy of the email to ascertain the exact date.) They said they were awaiting government approval. I believe they also said that I should rely on my own judgment to make the best decision for myself with respect to one of the other boosters, although my recollection is somewhat vague on this point. I intend to stick with the study plan.
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1 ReactionYes. I agree. I am against mandates and against anti-vaxers from the standpoint that I believe (and think this nation was founded on and is best served by) everyone should educate on their risk and options. On that basis I would not recommend someone get, or not get the vaccine. I take it upon myself to determine where I go and when, and do not see it as someone who is e.g., shopping next to me, as their responsibility to get vaccinated to 'protect" me; I'm vaccinated and in a vulnerable category, and I am protected; if I feel I need to be extra precautious, IMO, that is up to me. The bullying and closed-mindedness, is not just with the anti-vax crowd, but also those who want to dictate vaccination. Who am I given the documented issues with vaccinations to demand that a healthy person in their 20's get vaccinated? I can't guarantee there will be no issues down the road. I mean if someone is inclined to be strongly invested in vaccines, they can hand out leaflets w/out contact sticking them in doors in their community with maybe more data and basis then the short ads we get in the media? And although it is about individual rights and responsibility; it's not as if I am insensitive or uncaring because I am always looking at perspectives and reasoning based on data and science.
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2 ReactionsDr. Poland mentioned at the start of his last video that he had two turkeys for Thanksgiving. So I deduce he either had one large party or two smaller parties. How does he handle holidays with his family and entertaining at home? Does he require that everyone be vaccinated? Have a test before coming? Test daily while visiting with him? Quarantine alone for some period of time before arriving? Wear masks when inside his home? Does he arrange seating that is socially distanced when eating meals or otherwise removing masks? Does he maintain a pod?