The new Omicron variant XBB.1.5, which appeared a few months ago, contains more mutations that evade immunity than any other variant. It is considered to be highly contagious by scientists, which means previous vaccinations or natural antibodies from having the sickness could be less effective against the variant.
The new Omicron variant XXB.1.5 causes more than 25% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.—that’s up from less than 10% four weeks ago.
You can catch a version of Omicron after recovering from an older, non-Omicron variant. You can even get sick with one of the newer Omicron subvariants after getting over a different version of it.
Though the XXB.1.5 variant is still new, lab studies suggest that the bivalent vaccine is effective in protecting against severe disease, although not as effective in preventing infection.
But just because reinfections are less severe, it doesn’t mean that they are not terrible. You may still run a fever and experience body aches, brain fog and other symptoms. And there’s no way of knowing if your symptoms will linger and become long Covid.
Many of the tools and behaviors that help protect against infection can still help you avoid reinfection. Getting vaccinated and boosted is a good idea even after you’ve had Covid. You only need to wait a few weeks after an infection to get a shot. The vaccines will bolster your antibody levels, and research shows that they are effective in preventing severe outcomes if you get sick again.
What’s the best way to protect yourself and your family?
Get fully vaccinated against COVID-19. That includes getting the bivalent booster as soon as possible. The bivalent booster is approved for age 5 years and up. You are eligible for a COVID-19 bivalent booster shot if:
- You have completed a primary series of an approved COVID-19 vaccine
- It has been at least two months since you had any COVID vaccine
- You have recovered from an infection with COVID-19 and met criteria for discontinuing isolation
Additional measures, like masking indoors and in crowded spaces, avoid close contact with those who are ill, avoid contact with others if you are sick, social distancing and improving ventilation where possible, washing your hands often with soap and water (if unavailable use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer) can provide another layer of protection.
The bivalent COVID-19 boosters and flu shots are now available at EHE Health clinics. Convenient appointments are available now. Call 888.672.8172 to schedule.
If you are showing symptoms, we can connect you to your healthcare provider or refer you to a primary care physician. Contact our Health Navigation Center at 844.258.1820