The latest version of the COVID-19 vaccine will become available in Jamestown on September 29, 2023, according to Kim Lee, director of nursing for the Central Valley Health District. Some local clinics and pharmacies may receive the vaccine earlier. For instance, Molly Rachel, a pharmacist at The Medicine Shoppe, confirmed that their supply was on order as of September 22.
Rachel stated, “We are going to start immunizing people for COVID. We will be vaccinating for the flu for those 3 and older and COVID for those 12 and over.” This rollout follows recent actions by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which established new protocols regarding the distribution and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Lee noted that the ACIP’s authorization indicates this year’s vaccine distribution procedures will closely mirror those of previous years. The updated guidelines emphasize that vaccine administration for adults over the age of 65 should rely on “individual-based decision making.” This approach also extends to individuals between the ages of 6 months and 64 years, particularly highlighting that the benefits of vaccination are greatest for those at increased risk of severe COVID-19.
In a significant vote, the ACIP approved an 11-1 requirement aimed at promoting a consistent and comprehensive consent process. This includes outlining six key risks and uncertainties that medical providers must present to patients. Rachel emphasized that this individual-based decision-making has long been the standard in vaccine administration, stating, “To me, we have always done shared clinical decision making. People should continue to discuss vaccines with their health care provider.”
The timing of the ACIP’s decisions may have led to confusion among the public, according to Rachel. “We just want to get people in and answer their questions. We can usually clear things up for them,” she added.
Additionally, Lee indicated that most insurance plans will cover COVID-19 vaccinations this season. Individuals are encouraged to contact their vaccine providers for information regarding costs and age requirements. As the fall season approaches, many people also consider updating their flu vaccinations. Rachel pointed out that both flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same visit to a clinic or pharmacy.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this year’s flu shot is designed to protect against two variants of Influenza A and one variant of Influenza B. The CDC estimates that 154 million doses of the flu vaccine will be available this season. The flu vaccine is offered in both regular and high-dose formulations for individuals aged 65 and older. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services reports that flu and COVID-19 vaccines are effective in preventing hospitalization and severe illness, with effectiveness rates ranging from 30% to 60%.
Another vaccination option for the fall is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine. This shot is available for individuals over 75 and for younger people with pre-existing health conditions. The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services indicates that the RSV vaccine has an effectiveness rate of between 82% and 86% in reducing the risk of severe illness, offering lifetime protection against the virus.
Rachel advises anyone with questions about the vaccines to consult their pharmacist or healthcare provider. With the upcoming launch of the COVID-19 vaccine in Jamestown, health officials are hopeful that community members will take the opportunity to protect themselves and contribute to public health efforts this fall.
