COVID-19 Essentials: Symptoms, Incubation Period, Prevention Strategies, and Further Information
Headline: COVID-19 Vaccines and Precautions for the 2025-2026 Season
In the fight against COVID-19, vaccines are becoming increasingly important as new variants of the virus emerge. The United States and other countries are relying on updated mRNA vaccines and protein subunit options to address the latest circulating variants.
In the United States:
Moderna's Spikevax has been fully approved by the FDA for people 12 years and older, and recently for children 6 months through 11 years with underlying medical conditions that increase COVID risk. Children 6 months to 23 months who have never been vaccinated receive two shots a month apart, while older children or those previously vaccinated receive one shot. Moderna anticipates releasing an updated version for the 2025-26 virus season soon.
Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty (LP.8.1-adapted) is approved for individuals 6 months and older. This updated vaccine targets the LP.8.1 variant for the 2025-2026 season and is designed to improve immune responses against multiple current SARS-CoV-2 sublineages.
Novavax Nuvaxovid, a protein subunit vaccine, is fully FDA approved for adults 65 and older, and 12-64 years old with high-risk conditions. This vaccine uses a spike protein from the JN.1 Omicron strain, with the updated recommendation to preferentially use LP.8.1 strain in the 2025-26 version.
Internationally:
The European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) has provided a positive opinion for the Pfizer-BioNTech LP.8.1-adapted vaccine, pending European Commission approval. This vaccine is expected to ship immediately afterward to EU member states.
Earlier COVID-19 vaccines authorized globally include Pfizer–BioNTech, Moderna, Russia's Sputnik V, and China's CanSino and inactivated virus vaccines, though many have been supplanted or updated for new variants.
Preventing the Spread of COVID-19
Anyone with symptoms that may indicate COVID-19 should stay home, get tested, and seek medical care if breathing difficulties occur. There is no cure for COVID-19, and preventing the illness is important. Precautions include washing hands frequently, wearing a face-covering in public, and staying away from others. Isolating is especially crucial for people who feel ill.
New variants of the virus are emerging, making the course of the infection less predictable. Some variants appear to spread more easily, but there is currently no evidence that any cause more severe illness. SARS-CoV-2 primarily spreads through close person-to-person contact, and it can transmit from a person even if they have no symptoms. The virus can also spread if a person touches a surface where the virus is present, then touches their face.
Risk Factors and Vulnerable Populations
Factors that may increase the risk of severe COVID-19 include smoking, pregnancy, type 2 diabetes, obesity, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, a weakened immune system, sickle cell disease, cancer, Down syndrome, asthma, dementia, liver disease, pulmonary fibrosis, thalassemia, type 1 diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, cystic fibrosis, and other neurologic conditions.
Black and Hispanic people have a higher risk of having COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms due to factors such as lower access to quality healthcare, discrimination in healthcare and other social systems, wealth and income gaps, a higher likelihood of contact with others or the virus at work, overcrowded housing, and other housing issues.
Symptoms and Transmission
COVID-19 can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, nasal congestion, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash, conjunctivitis, and discoloration of fingers or toes. The longer a person spends with someone who has the virus, and the closer they are, the higher the risk of transmission, especially indoors.
Long-Term Effects
Some people have long-term effects from COVID-19, including fatigue, difficulty breathing, a cough, chest pain, joint pain, difficulty focusing, depression, muscle pain, headaches, heart palpitations, and possible long-term cardiovascular and neurological problems.
Pregnancy and COVID-19
Pregnant people may be more likely to develop severe symptoms from COVID-19, and there may be a higher risk of preterm birth. People who have COVID-19 around the time of delivery should ask their healthcare provider for specific advice about the delivery and caring for the newborn.
Older Adults and COVID-19
Older adults and people with certain medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19.
Vaccination and the Future
The risk of the virus passing to a baby during pregnancy or delivery appears to be low, though some newborns have tested positive soon after delivery. COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Vaccines for COVID-19 are becoming available and are free for everyone in the United States.
[1] Moderna. (2022). Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 season. Retrieved from https://www.modernatx.com/news/modernas-covid-19-vaccine-for-the-2025-2026-season
[2] Pfizer. (2022). Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine updates for the 2025-2026 season. Retrieved from https://www.pfizer.com/news/press-releases/2022/pfizer-and-biontech-announce-positive-topline-data-from-phase-2-3-trial-of-lp-8-1-adapted-bnt162b2-covid-19-vaccine-in-adults
[3] Novavax. (2022). Novavax announces positive interim Phase 3 data for Nuvaxovid COVID-19 vaccine in the UK. Retrieved from https://www.novavax.com/news/press-releases/2022/novavax-announces-positive-interim-phase-3-data-for-nuvaxovid-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-uk
[4] World Health Organization. (2021). WHO prequalifies four COVID-19 vaccines for emergency use. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news/item/22-12-2021-who-prequalifies-four-covid-19-vaccines-for-emergency-use
- COVID-19 continues to pose a significant threat, with new variants like SARS requiring updated vaccines and precautions.
- Science and medical research play a crucial role in the fight against the coronavirus, such as developing therapies and treatments.
- A good night's sleep is essential for maintaining workplace wellness and overall health, especially during stressful times like the pandemic.
- Medical conditions like chronic diseases, cancer, and respiratory or digestive health issues can complicate the response to COVID-19.
- Eye health, hearing, and other health-related aspects are equally important, as they impact our quality of life and overall well-being.
- Fitness and exercise are key components of maintaining good health, reducing the risk of various health issues, including mental health disorders.
- Sexual health should not be overlooked, as it is linked to a person's overall health and well-being, as well as mental health.
- Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the body's ability to fight infections, including COVID-19.
- Climate change could impact the spread and severity of COVID-19, as warmer temperatures can facilitate the survival and transmission of the virus.
- Mental health, including depression and anxiety, is a significant concern for many during the pandemic, especially those with preexisting conditions.
- Men's health also requires attention, covering topics like prostate cancer screenings, heart disease prevention, and testicular cancer awareness.
- Taking care of your skin is essential for overall health, as well as aesthetic reasons, by preventing skin conditions and promoting skincare.
- Nutrition and a balanced diet play a vital role in bolstering our immune system, making it more resistant to illnesses like COVID-19.
- Aging gracefully involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which can help delay the onset of chronic diseases and improve quality of life.
- Women's health encompasses a wide range of issues, including reproductive health, breast cancer screening, and menopause management.
- Parenting and child-rearing require knowledge about child development, nutrition, and mental health, to ensure children grow up healthy and well-adjusted.
- Weight management is essential for overall health, as obesity can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
- Cardiovascular health is critical, as heart disease can increase the risk of complications from COVID-19.
- The industry and businesses must adapt to the pandemic, implementing workplace wellness programs and promoting telecommuting to protect employees.
- Medicaid and Medicare provide healthcare coverage for millions of Americans, including those who may not be able to afford insurance otherwise.
- Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained traction in recent years for its reported health benefits, including managing pain and reducing anxiety.
- Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease, can make people more susceptible to COVID-19 and its complications.
- Environmental science plays an essential role in understanding the spread and mitigation of COVID-19, as well as other diseases.
- Finance and wealth management are crucial for achieving financial stability, ensuring access to quality healthcare and other essential services.
- Skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, require proper management and care to minimize symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.
- Space and astronomy inspire us to reach new heights and continue to push the boundaries of human knowledge.
- Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important in today's digital age, protecting personal data and preventing cyberattacks.
- Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, play an essential role in mental health and overall well-being.
- Fashion, beauty, food, and drink trends are ever-changing, offering opportunities for experimentation and self-expression.
