Voices From The Community | Spinal Cord Injury & Paralysis

COVID-19: Vaccines and Long COVID

Written by Reeve Staff | Feb 26, 2024 2:00:00 PM

Researchers globally are discovering more about COVID-19, Long COVID-19, and booster shots. The three are linked because booster shots can affect the severity of symptoms of COVID-19 and long-term COVID-19.

Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines were quickly developed after the virus spread globally. Researchers worldwide searched for answers using mRNA, a known combatant of similar viruses. Moderna and Pfizer-BioNtech were the first to release vaccines that effectively prevented or decreased the risk of COVID-19 and its symptoms. Since then, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has changed these vaccines and others (Novavax, Comirnaty – produced by Pfizer-BioNtech, and Spikevax- produced by Moderna).

Moderna/Pfizer-BioNtech

Moderna has two vaccines – Moderna adjuvanted vaccine and Spikevax. Pfizer-BioNtech also has two vaccines-Pfizer-BioNtech and Comirnaty. The 2023-2024 versions help prevent or protect all ages against COVID-19 symptoms that are severe and can cause hospitalization or death. However, there are differences in FDA-approved uses.

Moderna/ Pfizer-BioNtech FDA Authorized Use

  • Six months to 11 years, one or more shots of previous or current formulas: 1 dose
  • At least three doses should be given to children aged six months through 11 years with weakened immune systems. The FDA recommends the updated 2023-2024 formula.

Spikevax/Comirnaty

  • People aged 12 and older: 1 dose.
  • People 12 years and older with weakened immune systems should have at least three doses.1,2