Cierra Lemott 
As COVID-19 hospitalizations have been on the rise, the FDA has approved updated vaccines from both Moderna and Pfizer made to target omicron variant XBB. 1.5. The vaccine will be available starting this month.
“The updated mRNA vaccines are each approved for individuals 12 years of age and older and are authorized under emergency use for individuals 6 months through 11 years of age,” according to an FDA news release.
Since the start of the pandemic, in Illinois there have been over four million cases resulting in more than 36,000 deaths, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
As with the flu, different strains of COVID-19 have emerged, making having an up to date vaccine important. Without one, it becomes more difficult for your body to fight against the ever-changing virus.
With school being back in session and the colder months rapidly approaching, it’s important to be vaccinated to protect yourself and others. In addition to being vaccinated, continue to frequently wash your hands and disinfect high-touch surfaces. Stay safe this cold and flu (and COVID) season!
By Cierra Lemott, Senior, Columbia College Chicago
Instagram: @cece.kodak / @kodakscamera
X: @LemottCierra
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