Is it time for a new booster shot?

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COVID-19 cases are rising. Should you get a booster shot? By Alice Park Senior Health Correspondent I’m getting asked about booster shots a lot lately, thanks to the summer surge of COVID-19 cases as more of us are traveling and gathering. And with health experts expected to announce an updated COVID-19 vaccine for the fall, it’s reasonable to wonder if its makes sense to get boosted now, or to wait. The answer isn’t simple, and it depends on your individual circumstances, according to the experts I interviewed. More people have some sort of immunity built up, both from getting vaccinated and from getting infected, sometimes repeatedly, with the COVID-19 virus. But both types of immunity can wane after a few months, leaving you less than fully protected against infection. That protection is still strong enough to keep you from getting severely ill and hospitalized, but who wants to get infected if it means you could be sick even for a day? Here’s how doctors recommend you navigate boosters: For older people and those with weakened immune systems, it makes sense to get boosted now, since cases are increasing. For otherwise healthy people, discuss with your doctor whether your health history—including chronic conditions you have and medications you take—might justify getting a booster shot now. Even if you get boosted now, you'll still be able to get the updated shot a few months later, whenever it becomes available. READ MORE  Share This Story

What Else to Read Extreme Heat Is Endangering America’s Workers—and Its Economy By Aryn Baker / Georgia This summer's extreme heat is putting into relief the risks faced by the U.S.'s 50 million outdoor workers—and, as a result, its economy. Read More » Heat Makes Outdoor Work Dangerous By Aryn Baker and Joey Lautrup As scorching temperatures broke new records for the planet this summer, outdoor workers are increasingly vulnerable. Read More » Why Online Shopping Makes You So Happy By Angela Haupt Experts explain the psychology behind online shopping—and tips to show restraint. Read More » How to Get Healthier Dopamine Highs By Matt Fuchs Humans aren't big fans of the status quo. We yearn for new experiences and rewards, whether by seeking a new meal, job, or creative project. Read More » How Alternative Medicine Can Help People With Asthma By Markham Heid Mind-body therapies such as yoga and breath training are popular among those with severe asthma, though evidence is mixed. Read More »

ONE LAST READ The mysterious murder of a pharma billionaire Barry Sherman, chairman of a generic drug company, and his wife were among Canada's wealthiest and most recognized couples when they were strangled to death almost six years ago. As Matthew Campbell and Ari Altstedter report in Bloomberg Businessweek, police have made no progress solving their murder, while their heirs squabble over their troubled pharma empire. Read More »

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