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Of the approximately
50,000 covid-associated deaths in 2023, more than 44,000 — or about 88 percent — occurred in people 65 and older."
Yet, the vaccination rate among older individuals remains disturbingly low. Even among the highest-risk group, individuals 75 and older,
just 36 percent received the booster shot in the fall and winter.
Older individuals, particularly those residing in congregate living facilities, must hear this message over and over: It is essential for them to receive the updated booster this fall.
As I
wrote about before, the coronavirus vaccine’s effectiveness has changed over time. Earlier in the pandemic, it greatly reduced the chance of infection. But as the virus evolved, and as people gained immunity through infection, the added benefit of the vaccine at thwarting infection decreased.
The CDC’s
most recent analyses show that in people 50 and older, the vaccine only reduced symptomatic infections by 44 percent. This was specifically for the seven days to two months after a shot was administered, which is when it is most effective. By four to six months after vaccination, it fell to 30 percent.
These numbers are not meant to dissuade people from getting the booster. The primary reason for the shot is to reduce severe illness, which — again — matters most for older adults."
