New COVID-19 vaccine available for ages 12+ who have not yet been vaccinated

In July, Novavax was added to the list of vaccines used to fight COVID-19 in the United States; and it is now being offered by Mile Bluff Medical Center. The vaccine is available in more than 40 countries, and has been approved for use by the CDC, World Health Organization and European Union.

Novavax was developed using the protein-based technology that is found in other common vaccines, such as the one that protects against influenza. Novavax is an option for those who may be allergic to one of the components in the other COVID-19 vaccines. And unlike the influenza vaccine, Novavax does not contain egg protein, making it safe for those with an allergy to eggs.

Below you will find basic information about the vaccines available at Mile Bluff Medical Center and its clinics. To make an appointment, call 608-847-5000. If you have questions or concerns, talk to your primary care provider or pharmacist.

Novavax

• Recombinant protein/adjuvants vaccine
• 2 doses, three or eight weeks apart
     o Three weeks for the immunocompromised and those with high risk of exposure (healthcare workers)
     o Eight weeks for all others (this has shown to give the best long-term protection)
• Ages 12+ who have not yet received any other COVID-19 vaccine are eligible
• Boosters are not currently approved

Moderna

• mRNA vaccine
• 2 doses, 28 days apart
• Ages six months and older are eligible
• Additional dose for the immunocompromised 28 days after the first completed series
• Booster dose, four or five months after the initial completed series or additional dose
     The Moderna and Pfizer boosters are interchangeable.
     o Four months for the immunocompromised
     o Five months for all others

Pfizer

• mRNA vaccine
• 2 doses, 21 days apart
• Ages six months and older are eligible
• Additional dose for the immunocompromised 28 days after the first completed series
• Booster dose, four or five months after the initial completed series or additional dose
     The Pfizer and Moderna boosters are interchangeable.
     o Four months for the immunocompromised
     o Five months for all others