Why Updating Your COVID Booster Matters More Than You Think

COVID-19 is still around, and it's still a big deal. Health experts are urging people to get the latest COVID-19 booster shot. This updated booster is designed to protect against the ever-changing virus. It's not just about avoiding getting sick right now. It's also about preventing long-term health problems that can come from COVID-19. Many people think COVID-19 is now just like a common cold. But that's not entirely true. Yes, it's less severe than it used to be. This is due to mutations that made it less dangerous and the fact that many people have some immunity from previous infections or vaccines. However, COVID-19 can still cause serious health issues. One of the biggest concerns is something called long COVID. This is when symptoms last for months or even years after the initial infection. Symptoms can include extreme tiredness, trouble thinking clearly, heart problems, and more. Studies have shown that people who have had multiple COVID-19 infections are more likely to develop long COVID. But getting vaccinated, especially with the updated booster, can lower this risk. Long COVID is more common than many people realize. Studies have found that around 7% to 8% of people in the U. S. have experienced long COVID at some point. Certain groups, like middle-aged people, those with chronic conditions, and women, are more likely to have it. Vaccination, especially with the updated booster, can reduce the chances of developing long COVID.COVID-19 can also lead to serious complications, even if they are not very common. These can include problems with the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart, and brain. Research has shown that COVID-19 can speed up aging in blood vessels, especially in women. Even a mild infection can cause the blood vessels to age faster. This aging is even worse in people who have long COVID but less noticeable in those who are vaccinated. Recent studies have also found that COVID-19 can cause the brain to age faster. This includes people who were not infected but went through the pandemic. The biggest impact was seen in those who were infected, especially older adults and men. Importantly, a decline in thinking skills was only seen in those who had a history of COVID-19 infection. Despite what some people might say, the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective. It can reduce the risk of severe illness and long-term health problems. While the CDC's recommendations can be confusing, getting vaccinated should be available to anyone who wants it. Everyone should consider getting the updated booster to protect themselves and others.