University Health in San Antonio to Pause COVID-19 Vaccinations Ahead of New Formula Rollout – Hoodline

In light of the impending rollout of an updated COVID-19 vaccine formula, University Health is set to temporarily halt the dispensation of the current vaccines at their pharmacies. The pause will start the last day of July and aims to smoothly transition to the updated 2024-2025 vaccine anticipated this coming fall. University Health spokeswoman Andrea Wazir stated, "Beginning July 31, University Health pharmacies will temporarily pause administering the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine," as reported by the San Antonio Report. Wazir explained that the pause is primarily due to depleting vaccine inventory levels.

The update in the vaccine schedule coincides with an increase in COVID-19 cases in Bexar County, yet it poses a dilemma for those considering vaccination now or waiting for the new formula. University Health's Dr. Jason Bowling advised that immediate protection is recommended, particularly for those at a higher risk of severe COVID infection, stating, "The updated vaccine is going to be around pretty soon. I think most people are going to hold tight and get the updated vaccine when it comes out," according to an interview with the San Antonio Report. Current guidelines suggest waiting up to three months post the last booster before getting the updated vaccine.

Regardless of the temporary pause, Metro Health confirmed it would continue to offer the COVID-19 vaccines in its supply until advised otherwise by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The readiness for the strategic vaccine shift embodies efforts to combat the mutating virus better, with new strains such as the KP.3 and KP.2 variants dubbed "FLiRT" owing to their mutations on the rise. Public health experts are advocating for the updated shots for everyone aged six months and older, reinforcing the importance of staying ahead of the virus's evolutions.

As the free vaccination programs for underserved communities are poised potentially to be impacted with the CDC's Bridge Access Program concluding in August, the availability of the updated COVID vaccines is set to remain intact for such populations. University Health and Metro Health assure that vaccines through the Vaccines for Children and Adult Safety Net programs will be provided the vaccines at no charge to uninsured and CareLink patients. As for those currently tackling a bout of COVID, mild to moderate symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter medications, while others might qualify for more advanced treatments like Paxlovid or intravenous infusions of Remdesivir and Molnupiravir, which are available through assistance programs, as stated by the San Antonio Report.

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University Health in San Antonio to Pause COVID-19 Vaccinations Ahead of New Formula Rollout - Hoodline