New variants of COVID-19 continue to emerge – WWLP.com

Mass. (WWLP) It has been four years since the COVID-19 pandemic began and new variants continue to emerge. For some, it may seem like an endless cycle. 22News spoke with an Infectious Disease specialist about what people need to know about the latest variant.

This virus is always changing, which can make controlling it more difficult. 22News learned whether the latest vaccines can protect you from it.

Dr. Armando Paez, the Chief of the Division of Infectious Disease at Baystate Health said, Its very important that people know that COVID-19 is still around, especially during the winter time. In addition to that, flu and RSV are circulating.

Respiratory illnesses do not appear to be going anywhere anytime soon. A new COVID variant continues to sweep the country. The dominant variant, JN.1 caused an uptick in hospitalizations and deaths. Infectious Disease specialists say the vaccine is still the best line of defense.

Dr. Paez added, Its still in the family of the omicron and that means the current vaccination recommended against COVID-19 is still effective in preventing a serious course of illness.

When it comes to the severity of respiratory illnesses here in Massachusetts, the latest state data show that influenza is currently at a moderate level and COVID-19 at a low level. When it comes to getting vaccines into arms to keep up with variants the progress is lower compared to last year. Thats raising concern for top health officials.

Just last month the CDC issued a health advisory alerting healthcare providers about low vaccination rates against influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.

CDC data show that only 2 in 5 people have received their flu vaccine so far this season and about 1 in 6 getting the latest vaccine to fight COVID. In Massachusetts, about 19% of residents are vaccinated against COVID-19 and about 38% are vaccinated against influenza. Older adults and people with certain underlying medical conditions are the most at risk for severe diseases.

Dr. Paez told 22News, Immunity doesnt last very long therefore one can get re-infected, even with the same variant. Depending on how and when the individual got vaccinated.

Paez urges people to be mindful if they are feeling ill and to continue to take the same measures to stop the spread such as washing their hands and wearing a mask.

According to the CDC one of the key reasons behind the lower vaccination rates include concerns or issues about unknown or serious side effects. Health experts say there are little to no side effects.

Kristina DAmours is a reporter who is a part of the evening 22News team. FollowKristina on X@KristinaD_WWLPand view herbioto see more of her work.

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New variants of COVID-19 continue to emerge - WWLP.com