Four Steps to Protect People from Rising Covid Caseloads

Strategic Insights -

As the BA.2 subvariant of Omicron spreads across Europe, many experts expect Covid caseloads to rise in the US, with almost one-quarter of vaccinated adults yet to receive a booster shot. Four promising strategies could minimize the toll of Covid in the coming months: more boosters, treatment for the immunocompromised, post-infection treatments, and masks.

Key Takeaways:

  • Almost 1 in 4 US adults have been vaccinated but not received a booster shot, according to Kaiser Family Foundation surveys.
  • Without a booster, immunity tends to wane, but with a booster, people are even more protected than they were shortly after receiving a second shot, data shows.
  • The Biden administration will offer second booster shots (fourth doses) to anyone 50 or older, but the evidence suggests these shots are less important than first booster shots.
  • Around 80% of available Evusheld doses, a treatment for the immunocompromised, sit unused in warehouses, pharmacies, and hospitals due to confusion and a lack of guidance.
  • Post-infection treatments like Paxlovid have become more widely available but should be used judiciously, as the current supply is fragile and prescription from healthcare professionals is necessary.
  • Masks can still help reduce Covid's spread, especially in high-risk settings like hospitals and nursing homes, and individuals can choose to wear them to reduce anxiety.

Statistics:

  • Almost 1 in 4 (24%) US adults have been vaccinated but not received a booster shot (Kaiser Family Foundation surveys).
  • The BA.2 subvariant has caused Covid-19 cases to rise across much of Europe.
  • The US caseloads have held steady over the past week, ending two months of sharp declines.
  • The US has ordered enough Evusheld doses to treat 850,000 people, but 80% are unused.
  • The Covid-19 death toll in the US has exceeded 975,000, but most deaths are now avoidable given the availability of vaccine shots and treatments.

Sources:

  • Kaiser Family Foundation surveys
  • Biden administration
  • California health data
  • AstraZeneca
  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • Dr. Aaron Richterman
  • Dr. Jennifer Nuzzo
  • Dr. Dorry Segev
  • Dr. Scott Dryden-Peterson