"Emerging COVID-19 Variant Raises Fresh Concerns for Infections"
Concerns about COVID-19 infections persist as a new variant, BA.2.86 (Pirola), with 30 new mutations and related to the omicron strain, emerges. The Virginia Department of Health has reported a significant increase in daily cases, prompting a Norfolk-based cardiologist to emphasize the importance of vaccinations. Dr. Keith Newby advises getting whatever vaccine is available now, as all vaccinations are beneficial in preventing hospitalization and keeping individuals with their families. The CDC will end its vaccination distribution program this fall, but most insured Americans can still receive shots at no cost, while the CDC's Bridge Access Program will provide free vaccines for uninsured or underinsured adults until December 2024.
