Ongoing Boosters
Experts predict that COVID-19 will eventually become endemic, much like influenza, and will require a similar approach. At present, the effectiveness of vaccines begins to diminish after six months. As a result, regular boosters will be necessary, especially considering the possibility of vaccine-resistant variants.
Some researchers propose that future boosters should specifically target the variants that pose the greatest risk. This seasonal approach has led companies like Moderna to already concentrate their efforts on developing a combination booster that addresses both COVID-19 and influenza.
The Key to Returning to a “Normal” Life
The path to a complete return to pre-pandemic life hinges on the widespread availability of oral COVID-19 medications, according to experts. Currently, there is a shortage of FDA-approved medications that can be distributed to larger communities. Moreover, certain medications have potential drug interactions, which restrict doctors from prescribing them to the general population.