CDC Recommends Second Covid Dose in Spring for Older Adults; HPV Vaccine for Young People

Nov 4, 2024, 07:02 AM

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending that older adults, specifically those aged 65 and up, and individuals with weakened immune systems receive a second dose of the 2024-25 Covid vaccine six months after their initial dose. This measure is aimed at bolstering immunity in high-risk populations. Experts emphasize that this recommendation does not imply the vaccines are ineffective. Additionally, the CDC advises that all young people in the US up to age 26 be vaccinated against HPV to help prevent certain deadly cancers. For those over age 26, the HPV vaccine is recommended only for males who are immunocompromised or have other risk factors. The CDC also recommends that older adults get a second Covid shot in the spring, raising questions about the durability of the vaccines.