Blueprint Autumn 2021

COVID-19
UPDATE
global pandemic doesn’t end overnight.
Viruses constantly change, and sometimes they
become a stronger variant of the original virus.
Since summer, the United States (especially
Arkansas) has been battling the delta variant of
COVID-19, which is at least twice as contagious
as the original virus. Health experts say it’s
typical for a new virus strain to be more
contagious because it often becomes much
more efficient and easily transmitted. This has
been documented in previous pandemics, like
the 1918 flu pandemic.
Vaccines and boosters
When vaccines arrived in late 2020, they offered
a light at the end of the tunnel. They continue
to be the brightest beacon we have as the
COVID-19 pandemic marches into its second
winter. The vaccines are safe, effective and the
strongest weapon to prevent severe illness and
hospitalization.
The vaccines keep most people from being
hospitalized or dying from COVID-19. But no
vaccine is 100% effective, especially when it
comes to variants.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently
gave approval for people with compromised
immune systems who received a two-dose vaccine
(Pfizer or Moderna) to get a booster shot.
In late September, the FDA also approved Pfizer
boosters for people over age 65 or at high risk
of severe COVID-19 infection who received their
second dose at least six months ago.
Pregnancy and COVID-19
The CDC now recommends pregnant women be
vaccinated against COVID-19. Studies show no
increased risk of miscarriage from the vaccine.
There is a high risk of complications from
COVID-19 if you are pregnant, including preterm
birth, hospitalization and death.
If you have questions about getting vaccinated
or about a booster, please talk to your doctor.
10 AUTUMN 2021