The FDA and CDC have approved the Pfizer PFE.N, BioNTech 22UAy.DE and Moderna (MRNA.O) single target vaccines developed for the prevalent XBB.1.5 Omicron subvariant of SARS-CoV-19 virus. A fourth vaccine Novavax (NVAX.O), recently authorized, has yet to be distributed. Since September 12th it is estimated that 4.5 million doses have been administered. Although most pharmacies now stock vaccines, there are problems with distribution especially in rural areas with limited availability from physicians’ offices and clinics. A major current problem relates to pediatric vaccines that are in short supply in some areas.
Distribution of the new COVID vaccines is undertaken through commercial channels independent of the roll-out of the initial vaccine accomplished effectively by the U.S. Army.
The new COVID vaccine directed against the Omicron variant is highly recommended especially for the demographics subject to susceptibility in 2020 including the elderly and the immunosuppressed.