October Covid (possible @ content)

[tacokick]

Oct 3, 2023 9:04:00 GMT -5 msmerymac said:

Oct 3, 2023 2:00:53 GMT -5 tacokick said:

Out of curiosity, if you don’t have CVS, do you have Target? If so, do your Targets have pharmacies? Ours all have mini CVS in them where the Target pharmacy used to be.

I saw someone else online mention they didn’t have CVS and I can’t escape them.

There are like 4 on the same road, within a 4-5 mile stretch, so I have to specify the address of mine every time I'm at the doctor. 

I always pick the ones in Target because at least they are flagged that way in the system and I don’t have to memorize addresses and cross streets 😢

[devonpow]

Just got my booster and flu shot at a cvs - a long wait even with an appointment but otherwise fine.

It’s interesting how different it is this time - no waiting 15 minutes, no bringing in vaccine cards, I don’t know it I got Moderna or Pfizer actually. Much more like a “regular “ vaccine which I guess is good?

[pixy0stix]

The only CVSs here that I know of are in Target. A long time ago they were expanding out here, had built several new buildings in town, but then didn't go through with occupation. One is now a church.

[mpc]

MY 33 year old brother has COVID and was just admitted to the hospital with renal failure. My 70 year old parents (who also have COVID) had to carry him down the stairs to the car because he couldn't walk. He doesn't have health insurance so they probably waited longer than they should have to take him in. I can't even go see him...

[Susie]

Oct 3, 2023 10:57:10 GMT -5 devonpow said:

It’s interesting how different it is this time - no waiting 15 minutes, no bringing in vaccine cards, I don’t know it I got Moderna or Pfizer actually. Much more like a “regular “ vaccine which I guess is good?

I was actually hoping to get something, especially for my kids, indicating what they got and when.  As the keeper of all this info for my family, not having anything in writing at all makes it really hard to track how many months it's been since last vax, for the next vax.  If kids <5 are required to stick with same manufacturer, how many parents won't know, won't remember, won't have anywhere to double check?

I have info on my vax from CVS in their health dashboard, because I set up the appointment for myself with my own login online.  In that dashboard I have my flu vax history and covid vax history, at least of doses I got at CVS (which is all of them the past couple years).  I have date, manufacturer, lot, which arm, etc.  But I don't have that info for any other fam members, even though I made everyone's appointments.  That might get interesting next year.

[pixy0stix]

I'm so sorry, mpc

[Susie]

mpc, I'm so sorry. People shouldn't have to make these life and death decisions about when to seek treatment on the basis of insurance coverage in a developed country.

[wanderingback]

My hair dresser just called and said she has covid so has to reschedule her appointment with me. My monthly appointment takes about 3.5 hours with her, so I still mask when I'm getting my hair done (it's only her an 1 person at a time she does hair on). She was making up until my last 2 appointments with her. I hope she doesn't miss too much of work, since that's how she gets paid, but she said she just felt like she had a bad cold (she's in her mid-60s).

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Our pediatrician office has the updated pfizer. But they said they're switching to moderna in order to lessen waste. I wonder if pfizer thought of using single dose vials because now I'm sure they're losing business! My daughter is 10.5 months old, so got her last pfizer I think about 2 months ago. We have her 1st flu vaccine dose scheduled for next week. So I think I'll just wait for her 12 month appointment/vaccines and get her updated covid booster at the same time. 

[waverly]

We got our flu shots done yesterday; I accidentally went to the wrong CVS so then I had to drive to the correct one. But it worked out, we just had to wait a while since we weren't quite on time for our appointment.

So we are done with all our respiratory vaccines for fall! Yay!

[mrsukyankee]

mpc, I'm so sorry to hear this. I hope he recovers.

I still am struggling with Covid - I'm no longer positive, but my nasal passages are filling up constantly, I have headaches from it, I'm coughing and I get so exhausted so easily (I took the dog on a short walk and it was so hard). I also don't have my taste/smell back to what it was (already was screwed up from first Covid experience), so eating some foods taste like earth. Bah. Don't get Covid if you can help yourself.

[kitty]

So sorry mpc


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I had to take DD to the pedi yesterday (for injury, not illness). When we got to the main entrance of the HMO building, they had a large yellow sandwich board sign saying that covid levels were moderate so it was recommended that all patients and staff wear a mask and required for anyone with respiratory symptoms. But then when we went to the Pediatrics department, every single one of the staff members we interacted with, including the pedi, was maskless. I’m still a little WTF. There’s no way they are going to be able to encourage a significant percentage of patients to mask if the providers aren’t even masked.

[curbsideprophet]

www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-updated-novavax-covid-19-vaccine-formulated-better-protect-against-currently

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration amended the emergency use authorization (EUA) of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted for use in individuals 12 years of age and older to include the 2023-2024 formula. Individuals 12 years of age and older previously vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine (and who have not already been vaccinated with a recently updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine) are eligible to receive one dose and unvaccinated individuals receive two doses.

[noodleoo]

Oct 3, 2023 15:05:52 GMT -5 curbsideprophet said:

www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-updated-novavax-covid-19-vaccine-formulated-better-protect-against-currently

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration amended the emergency use authorization (EUA) of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted for use in individuals 12 years of age and older to include the 2023-2024 formula. Individuals 12 years of age and older previously vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine (and who have not already been vaccinated with a recently updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine) are eligible to receive one dose and unvaccinated individuals receive two doses.

Ooh thank you for posting this! YLE said this vaccine has fewer side effects and she was planning to get it. I wonder how long it will take for this one to be available.

[curbsideprophet]

Oct 3, 2023 15:18:08 GMT -5 noodleoo said:

Oct 3, 2023 15:05:52 GMT -5 curbsideprophet said:

www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-authorizes-updated-novavax-covid-19-vaccine-formulated-better-protect-against-currently

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration amended the emergency use authorization (EUA) of the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted for use in individuals 12 years of age and older to include the 2023-2024 formula. Individuals 12 years of age and older previously vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine (and who have not already been vaccinated with a recently updated mRNA COVID-19 vaccine) are eligible to receive one dose and unvaccinated individuals receive two doses.

Ooh thank you for posting this! YLE said this vaccine has fewer side effects and she was planning to get it. I wonder how long it will take for this one to be available.

I am so happy they removed the restrictions and made this easier to access. As for when, I am seeing various reports on Twitter. Some saying a few days, other saying available in about a week. Hopefully it will not be too hard to find.

[melmaria]

I’m surprised to hear how difficult it’s been for people to get shots. They seem easily available here. I wonder if it’s regional? More demand in certain states? We live in a very pro-vaccine metro area, but my H and I got appointments at Walgreens this week no problem. Hope everyone has better luck soon.

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Our pediatrician’s office emailed all of their families with info for covid vaccine clinics weeks ago, and the sign up process was very smooth (they chose Moderna). My teen SD got hers at a vaccine clinic visit after school last week, and both of my DDs (ages 4 and 2) were both able to sign up to get shots at DD2’s annual physical/well visit this week. They even offered shots to parents at the same time. Our pediatrician’s office has always been very on top of this, but feeling extra lucky after reading this thread!

[formerlyak]

mpc big hugs. My mom and I had to carry my brother down his stairs when he was in renal failure last year. It’s was emotionally very difficult for us to see him like that. I can’t imagine your poor parents having to do that while also being sick with Covid. I hope the doctors were able to help him start to gain strength.

[noodleoo]

mpc, how's your brother doing? Hoping he's ok and hopefully recovering.

[hermione]

mpc I hope your brother is improving. How scary for all involved!

[beerlover]

I got flu and Covid shots yesterday. I had zero reaction to any of the previous Moderna vaccines, but I'm kind of tired and just feeling off today. I have a headache and like a fuzzy headed feeling. Thankfully I WFH- I might lie down for a little and just keep an eye on IMs.

I got both in the same arm so my left arm hurts so badly. In the past I've been able to work out right after vaccines but I cannot lift this arm above my head so I'll have to do something not requiring that today!

[mpc]

Oct 4, 2023 8:09:04 GMT -5 noodleoo said:

mpc , how's your brother doing? Hoping he's ok and hopefully recovering.

He spent the night in ICU and woke up today asking for donuts, so maybe that's a good sign lol. My mom is still waiting for the nephrologist to come talk to them to know if this something to completely recover from or if it will have long term implications. 

I asked about visiting protocols at the hospital since he and both my parents currently have COVID. She said they are supposed to wear a mask if others are around, but can take it off if they are alone in the room. I can visit and would just be told to wear a mask. She also mentioned that quite a few of the people working on him in the ER didn't even bother with a mask. I hope things are a little more strict in the ICU. (PS I live in Florida.)

[Bad Dingo]

I'm glad to hear he's improving, what a scary situation.

[noodleoo]

Oct 4, 2023 9:11:08 GMT -5 mpc said:

Oct 4, 2023 8:09:04 GMT -5 noodleoo said:

mpc , how's your brother doing? Hoping he's ok and hopefully recovering.

He spent the night in ICU and woke up today asking for donuts, so maybe that's a good sign lol. My mom is still waiting for the nephrologist to come talk to them to know if this something to completely recover from or if it will have long term implications. 

I asked about visiting protocols at the hospital since he and both my parents currently have COVID. She said they are supposed to wear a mask if others are around, but can take it off if they are alone in the room. I can visit and would just be told to wear a mask. She also mentioned that quite a few of the people working on him in the ER didn't even bother with a mask. I hope things are a little more strict in the ICU. (PS I live in Florida.)

I hope that's a good sign too!  Sending lots of good thoughts for a full recovery.  <3

That's concerning that the staff aren't masking while working with Covid + patients... My parents are in FL and I'm so glad they got their Covid vaccine already.  

[audette]

melmaria - I think it's both a regional thing (I had no difficulty scheduling appointments within a day or two here, although it was clear that the one pharmacy was not allowing walk-ups, mostly due to human resource availability, I suspect). I also think pediatric doses/schedules are much more challenging in general, too...



I got both my flu and covid shots last night, and feel... bleh. Exhausted, like I feel when I don't take my meds to help me stay awake, even though I have taken it today, and I possibly have a light fever (light enough that I could just say I feel warm because I'm exhausted...).

[Velar Fricative]

Very glad to hear your brother is doing better, mpc!

[tiramisu]

((((mpc)))) glad to hear he woke up asking for donuts. Hopefully he continues to improve and is out of the ICU soon.

[tiramisu]

I haven't even tried to get my COVID booster yet because I recovered from COVID slightly less than a month ago. My health insurance sent out emails about getting COVID and flu shots, but said that the covid ones weren't available yet. I don't think they'll cover me getting it at a pharmacy, so hopefully next month they have vaccines in stock. I'm planning to wait ~2 1/2 months after recovery.

When I got my flu shot the other day, I felt pretty run down for a couple of days afterwards. No idea what my reaction will be to this covid vaccine, but I had really strong immune responses to my first two (had COVID before my first dose).

[Velar Fricative]

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I made DD1's annual well check appointment for 11/1 - I had to wait until after 10/28 because of insurance (it's free as long as I wait at least a year and a day for the next appointment), but before 11/1 wasn't possible. That's when I get the kids their flu shots at the pediatrician, and when I called yesterday they confirmed they have the new covid shots there too. So I'm very thankful I don't have to navigate the drugstore situation, as I do know from friends it's been rough here too.

It mostly works out for us because DD1 (and I) will have had covid 90 days before the new shot, but DD2 will still be about 60 days out from her infection. I'm inclined to just get it for her that day too so I don't have to go back for the shot a month later. I'm less concerned about the covid shots than I am about the later-than-usual flu shots, so fingers crossed no flu until those shots. I know I could just bring them now to get the shots, but they'll both handle it much better getting them at the same time. I'll get both of mine at the same time around then too.

[fortnightlily]

Oct 4, 2023 12:26:39 GMT -5 Velar Fricative said:

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I'm less concerned about the covid shots than I am about the later-than-usual flu shots, so fingers crossed no flu until those shots. 

If it makes you feel better, flu activity is still low nationwide. Lower than it was this time last year. www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/usmap.htm

[noodleoo]

Oct 4, 2023 12:35:57 GMT -5 fortnightlily said:

Oct 4, 2023 12:26:39 GMT -5 Velar Fricative said:

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I'm less concerned about the covid shots than I am about the later-than-usual flu shots, so fingers crossed no flu until those shots. 

If it makes you feel better, flu activity is still low nationwide. Lower than it was this time last year. www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/usmap.htm

Strange that it is so low everywhere except NYC and DC which show levels at High.

I'm in MA and it says we are minimal levels, but when I clicked through to the state reporting, it says they are not currently reporting data and it won't start until October.  Hopefully it will be updated next week, but it makes me wonder if it is listed as Low because they just aren't reporting it right now.

[fortnightlily]

Oct 4, 2023 12:55:22 GMT -5 noodleoo said:

Oct 4, 2023 12:35:57 GMT -5 fortnightlily said:

If it makes you feel better, flu activity is still low nationwide. Lower than it was this time last year. www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/usmap.htm

Strange that it is so low everywhere except NYC and DC which show levels at High.

I'm in MA and it says we are minimal levels, but when I clicked through to the state reporting, it says they are not currently reporting data and it won't start until October.  Hopefully it will be updated next week, but it makes me wonder if it is listed as Low because they just aren't reporting it right now.

Not sure, but I wonder if a high number of travelers relative to population for those two cities influences it. Also, the small print on the map says "This system monitors visits for respiratory illness that includes fever plus a cough or sore throat, also referred to as ILI, not laboratory confirmed influenza and may capture patient visits due to other respiratory pathogens that cause similar symptoms."  When I asked Your Local Epidemiologist about that last year she said she was confident it excluded illnesses that test positive for Covid, but she wasn't sure about RSV.