Biotech
Thursday, August 29th, 2024 1:56 pm EDT
Key Points
- The FDA has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, targeting the KP.2 strain, a descendant of the omicron subvariant JN.1. These vaccines are expected to generate strong immune responses against other circulating variants like KP.3, which currently dominate U.S. cases.
- The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older get the new COVID vaccine, with availability expected in early September at major pharmacies. High-risk individuals, such as those over 65 or immunocompromised, are especially encouraged to stay updated on their vaccinations.
- Dexcom has launched Stelo, a new over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor (CGM) approved by the FDA. Stelo is designed for adults with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes and offers an accessible way to monitor glucose levels in real-time. The device is easy to use, lasts 15 days, and connects to an app that provides glucose data and insights.
The article provides an overview of the upcoming availability of new COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. The FDA recently approved updated mRNA-based vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, targeting a new strain called KP.2, a descendant of the omicron subvariant JN.1. Despite KP.2 accounting for only 3% of cases as of mid-August, the vaccines are expected to generate stronger immune responses against other circulating variants like KP.3, which now dominates. The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive the updated vaccine, especially high-risk individuals. The vaccines are expected to be available in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics across the U.S. in early September, with major pharmacies like Walgreens, CVS, and Rite-Aid already offering appointments. The article also touches on the CDC’s funding to ensure vaccines are available for uninsured and underinsured adults, and the anticipated approval of a new Novavax protein-based shot targeting similar variants.
Additionally, the article discusses a new continuous glucose monitor (CGM) called Stelo, developed by Dexcom, which has been approved by the FDA and is now available over the counter. Stelo is primarily designed for adults with prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin but can be used by anyone interested in monitoring their glucose levels. The device, which lasts 15 days, connects to an app via Bluetooth and provides real-time glucose readings. The article describes the ease of use of the Stelo system, its features, and some initial user experiences, emphasizing its potential as a mainstream health tech wearable in the U.S.
For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/08/27/healthy-returns-new-covid-shots-from-pfizer-moderna-what-to-know.html
