Experts in the Media – UConn’s Dr. David Banach is the go-to voice on COVID boosters

As COVID continues to wreak havoc across the globe, health systems in America are overwhelmed. And as the debate about a third shot continues, the FDA is prepared to allow Pfizer vaccine boosters as early as this week to those over 65 and to people at a higher health risk if exposed to the virus.

UConn epidemiologist Dr. David Banach offered his expert perspective and insight on the need and effectiveness for those looking to learn more about booster shots and COVID vaccines:

Booster shots of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine may be administered as early as Friday, but who will get one is still up for discussion.

“What the FDA review showed was in the general population, at this date and time, there wasn’t sufficient data to support booster doses,” said Dr. David Banach, hospital epidemiologist at UConn Health.

Last week, the FDA’s advisory committee voted overwhelmingly not to recommend a third shot for people 16 and up. However, they did vote to authorize a booster dose at least six months after full vaccination for people who are 65 and older as well as individuals who are at high risk for severe COVID.

“In older populations, there seems to be some potential benefit to giving a third dose within the Pfizer group,” said Dr. Banach.

Dr. Banach said more information is expected in the days to come as this matter heads to the CDC’s independent advisory panel this week.

“It’s going to provide more granular recommendations on how to proceed with that 65 and older group and potentially other groups as well,” said Dr. Banach. He added one of the groups up for discussion is healthcare workers.

There continues to be an enormous amount of coverage and questions about vaccines and COVID-19, and if you are a journalist looking to know more and include an expert in your story, then let us help.

Dr. David Banach is one of the lead experts on COVID-19 in America. He is available to speak with media regarding vaccination and what the future holds with COVID-19. To book an interview, simply click on his icon today.