Bivalent covid-19 vaccine: everything you need to know
The bivalent vaccine is once again in the spotlight with the release of new booster doses for at-risk groups. Immunization is recommended to help prevent new cases and reinfections of Covid-19, combating the spread of new variants of the coronavirus. 1
Subtypes of the Ômicron strains were detected in the country in 2023, requiring an update to the vaccine and distribution of booster doses. 1
The technical note from the Ministry of Health directs the campaign to people aged 60 or over, as well as to immunosuppressed individuals who have taken the vaccine more than six months ago. 1
In this post, we will explain what the bivalent vaccine is, what the benefits of the vaccine are and why you should take the booster if it is available for your profile. Keep reading!
What is the bivalent vaccine?
The bivalent vaccine is an immunizer with dual function, hence the name. This means that it was prepared to stimulate the creation of antibodies to prevent the original strains of covid. At the same time, it also protects against emerging subvariants that are currently related to the omicron. two
The objective of bivalent immunization is to provoke a more robust response in the body, so that the efficiency and validity of protection are greater than applications made with monovalent versions. two
Considering the high mutation capacity of the virus, a dose with broader action can avoid critical scenarios in a new wave of covid . two
This way, virus monitoring initiatives have more time to carry out their analyzes and develop solutions, without requiring emergency measures or putting the population at risk. two
What are their benefits compared to the first covid vaccines?
According to the pharmaceutical industry responsible for producing the vaccines, the bivalent vaccine causes a broader and more effective immunological response than the first doses made available to the population. two
This means that they are able to protect more against original strains and current variants, which is not possible with monovalent versions. The virus has been circulating at an accelerated pace since 2020, so every year it is possible to update the vaccine and prepare it to deal with mutations and strains that eventually emerge. two
The application of booster doses, on top of the initial immunization, is interesting to prolong the validity of the antibodies. two
This care makes it possible to reduce the incidence of Covid-19, whether in new cases or reinfections. In this way, the exposure of the virus to the organism is combated, avoiding scenarios that favor genetic mutations that increase the pathogen’s resistance to current treatments. two
Who can take the bivalent vaccine?
Immunization campaigns with the bivalent vaccine are targeted at the main risk groups, including 3 :
- elderly people aged 60 and over;
- patients with comorbidities;
- immunosuppressed people.
As soon as priority care reaches an acceptable level, the tendency is for the bivalent vaccine to be released for booster doses in the rest of the population. Remembering that each federative unit has the autonomy to coordinate the campaign within its dependencies.
How do I get the vaccine?
To take the bivalent you need to be in the group covered by the immunization campaign in your state. Fulfilling this criterion, go to a health center in your city, carrying your vaccination card and identity documents. 1
What are the reactions and side effects of the bivalent vaccine?
The most common side effects of the bivalent vaccine are 4 :
- headache;
- joint pain;
- muscle pain;
- pain in the application area;
- fatigue;
Despite possible inconveniences, it is not necessary to stop taking the vaccine, as most reactions are low risk and short-lived. This impact is much smaller and more manageable than catching Covid. 4
How long do reactions last?
Bivalent vaccine reactions are moderate in intensity and last a maximum of 24 hours, which is a small price to pay. In return, protection against Covid-19 can last months or even years, especially with new booster doses. 4
What are the vaccine contraindications?
The contraindication is only due to people who had a serious adverse reaction to previous vaccines. In this case, it is necessary to consult health authorities to verify the appropriate procedure. 4
Anyone who is allergic to eggs and milk can get vaccinated without any problems, as they are not ingredients used in the production of the vaccine. 4
Can someone who took bivalent still catch Covid?
Yes, even taking the bivalent you can still catch covid-19. The reason is the existence of many variants in circulation and the high mutagenic capacity of the coronavirus. Even so, the gain in the immune response provided by the vaccine continues to be useful, as it is capable of preventing serious infections and more serious symptoms. 4
Therefore, when vaccination does not prevent infection, it can at least mitigate the condition and greatly reduce the risk of respiratory complications. 4
How long do the effects of immunization last?
The effect of immunization is prolonged and, to a certain extent, indeterminate. The probability is that the protection rate will decrease over time, starting from the fourth month after receiving the vaccine. Hence the importance of booster doses. 4
Conclusion
The bivalent vaccine against Covid is one of the most effective ways of preventing the disease. The immunizer protects against both original strains and variants in greater circulation, especially those of the ômicron lineage, which is more transmissive and recurrent.
Starting with priority groups, such as the elderly and immunosuppressed patients, the campaign aims to reinforce and update protection, reducing the number of cases and hospitalizations related to the disease.
It is an important measure to reduce the circulation of the pathogen as much as possible, slowing down its ability to mutate and acquire resistance.
There is no cure for Covid-19, making prevention the best medicine. When contracting the virus, resting and isolating is essential. To alleviate symptoms and be more comfortable during this period, count on the help of Benegrip, an anti-flu that is also effective in relieving the condition caused by the coronavirus.
