Novavax

U.S. to offer free COVID tests by mail starting late September, with each household able to order up to four tests. The program has distributed over 900 million tests since the pandemic began. The tests aim to help detect the virus and prevent its spread during the holiday season.

COVID-19 cases are rising again, driven by new variants and waning immunity. Despite shifts in baselines since 2020, the disease persists, with symptoms and long-term effects like long COVID remaining a concern. Current strategies for prevention include masking, testing, and vaccinations. The virus continues to evolve, challenging immunity and vaccine effectiveness, with updated vaccines targeting newer strains anticipated.

Six COVID-19 vaccine innovation models were identified, each with different implications for global access, speed, and pricing. Western firms initially led in rapid vaccine development and delivery, but middle-income countries (MICs) are increasingly significant, especially in supplying other MICs. Public funding played a crucial role, highlighting governments' responsibility to ensure equitable access in future pandemics.

Over 1.18 million Americans have died from COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with hospitalizations and deaths significantly lower than peaks. Vaccinations and treatments have reduced severity, but uptake is low. Long COVID affects millions, and 9,655 children have developed MIS-C, with 79 deaths.

FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting a new variant, with guidance for immunocompromised and older adults to get vaccinated. Over 2,800 died in Morocco's earthquake; international aid is coordinated. An escaped convict in Pennsylvania remains at large. Military efforts in Alaska recover remains from a 1952 plane crash. The U.S. set a record for natural disasters in 2023.

FDA approved updated Pfizer and Moderna Covid vaccines targeting XBB.1.5 for ages 12+, with emergency use for younger children. Availability pending CDC approval. Novavax's vaccine under review. Vaccines aim to protect against current strains as cases and hospitalizations rise.

The FDA has discontinued EUAs for original Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines, now authorizing bivalent vaccines for all doses for individuals 6 months and older. This change aims to simplify immunization, especially for high-risk groups. Vaccine uptake has slowed, with plans to adjust formulations for future needs, reflecting ongoing efforts to adapt to COVID-19's evolving nature.

Novavax starts phase 2 trial for COVID-19/influenza and stand-alone influenza vaccines, targeting adults 50-80. Initial results expected mid-year, informing phase 3 trials. Aims to offer better protection, especially for older adults, and explore combining COVID-19 and influenza protection. Pfizer/BioNTech also testing mRNA-based combination vaccine.

The article reviews COVID-19 vaccines, focusing on mRNA and adenovirus-based vaccines, their mechanisms, advantages, and challenges in achieving herd immunity. It highlights the Oxford/AstraZeneca, Janssen/Johnson & Johnson, and Novavax vaccines, discussing their efficacy, storage, and distribution challenges, especially in low- and middle-income countries.