DR. SUZUKI’S BLOG
More updates on COVID and vaccine boosters”
Dr. Suzuki is a Covid19-designated physician & He can answer your COVID related questions. He will be bringing fun-colored masks to the totem pole and to the track nights to be given away to the club members.
Q. What’s the state of COVID infection in LA county right now?
In LA county, our vaccination rate is 65% (at least one dose) and we are averaging 33 new cases per 100,000 residents. In brief, we would like you to be careful and take all the prevention measures, but we are doing okay compared to the other struggling states, due to our higher vaccination rates.
The COVID infection number is worse than in it was in June, but it is no where near the peak, around the last Xmas when we had 180 new cases per 100,000 people. Our 7 day average infection rate is 1.03 — so it is still spreading slowly in Los Angeles. Our hospitalized patient numbers have been holding steady for the last two weeks and the vast majority (99%) of our COVID patients in the hospital are unvaccinated people.
Q. What’s the deal with FDA full-approval of the vaccines?
It is reported that FDA is going to grant a full authorization of Pfeizer vaccine this week, meaning that after weighing all the data based on over 200 million doses given, FDA determined that Pfeizer vaccine is SAFE and EFFECTIVE against preventing COVID19 infection and complications, and it will be endorsed just like any other vaccines for flu, shingles, polio and others.
Q. What about this booster vaccine shot? Should I get one now?
For certain individuals with compromised immune system, we recommend that they make an appointment and receive a third shot right now. Examples are; people with cancer treatment or transplant patients, or active treatment with steroids or other immune suppressing medications. FYI, you do NOT need a doctors note to get a third vaccine shot, as it is self-attestation basis. Now you can make an appointment specifically as a third shot.
For the rest of us, with healthy immune function, CDC will recommend a 3rd shot of mRNA vaccines (Pferzer and Moderma) as it will boost the antibody level by at least ten-fold. It is recommended that you get the same vaccine as the previous 2 shots, starting on September 20th and ideally before the winter season, when we can expect another surge in COVID cases.
Q. Does this mean we have to get a shot every 8 months?
We don’t have the data on that, but it’s unlikely. Many vaccines (examples: Tetanus, H Flu and Polio etc) are given as a series of 3 shots, and the protections are enhanced and very long lasting after the third shot (see the illustration - source: NY times & @peterHotez MD PhD).
Q. I’ve got the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. What about me?
Since J&J vaccine was developed and introduced much later, we still don’t have enough data or formal CDC recommendation yet… but it is forthcoming. I will update you later on this blog.
Q. What about masks? Do we still need it?
Mask is an inexpensive but effective tool that protect you against the virus, as well as keeping a person from spreading the virus. In LA county, we are back with the mask mandate which will protect you and others, including large outdoor venues like Dodger stadium and Hollywood Bowl, mandating to use a mask except when you are eating and drinking at your seat.
Q. Is it safe for us to be running together?
YES. If you are fully vaccinated, it is considered safe to be running outdoor with others. I still recommend that you wear a mask indoors, like grocery stores or shopping malls, and at large venues like Dodger stadium. If you are still unvaccinated, I highly recommend that you get that shot. It’s safe, effective, it saves your life, and it prevents your friends and family from catching the virus. Thank you!! —>
www.vaccines.gov And
www.myturn.ca.gov
(Sources: CDC.gov, New York Times)
Dr. Suzuki is a Boston marathon qualifier/finisher and an Ironman finisher. He is a foot and ankle surgeon, an attending staff of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He welcomes your running or health-related questions via email (
Kazu.Suzuki@cshs.org), which may be featured in our weekly emails and in our website.
(Disclaimer: This article is for your information only; it is NOT meant to be a substitute for a proper diagnosis and medical care by your own doctor.)
Have an inspired workout!
Regards,
Los Angeles Running Club
