To Your Good Health: Should you switch your vaccine brand for a second booster?

Expensive DR. ROACH: My wife and I are both in our late 60s. She has gotten a few doses of the Pfizer vaccine, and I have gotten three doses of the Moderna, only due to the fact that was what was obtainable when we bought our initially dose. Since of our age, we are taking into consideration acquiring a second booster dose. I know the advice is that either vaccine would be good, but we’ve heard that considering that the two vaccines attack the virus in a different way, it might be a good plan to swap vaccines. So I would get the Pfizer and she would get the Moderna. What are your thoughts? — T.A.

Respond to: It is in fact correct that the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, while really equivalent, have different consequences on the immune process. There are some experts who recommend switching vaccines, just as you have recommended. Both vaccines are outstanding at blocking serious disease and at increasing antibodies. But the kinds of antibodies are a minimal different, and the results on T-cells, the other primary arm of the immune process, are also unique. I switched vaccines for my booster. Most of the scientific tests demonstrating benefit have applied boosters of the same type as the primary series, so which is also a properly fantastic solution.

Initial reports seeking at booster pictures that have been optimized for the omicron variant have not shown improved outcomes than the unique vaccine. So will not wait for a new formulation. All grownups who acquired the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, any individual above 50 and everyone with average-to-severe immunocompromise who experienced their 3rd dose 4 or extra months ago — these who are in the group suggested for a fourth dose by the Foods and Drug Administration — should really contemplate scheduling. All those at greatest risk — this kind of as older older people (in excess of 75 or in a nursing house), those with diabetic issues or those with immune deficiency this kind of as organ transplant — must get a vaccine now.

People today who experienced a the latest (inside 1 year) confirmed COVID an infection AND 3 doses of vaccine have a superior level of protection and likely do not need a fourth dose.

Pricey DR.ROACH: At 82 several years outdated, for the previous 4 or 5 yrs, I have been dealing with knee pain when I climb stairs. I have no other problems with my knees. What is your feeling about mesenchymal mobile injections? I have been obese all my lifestyle. Presently I’m about 25 lbs . obese. — C.V.G.

Response: Mesenchymal cells are a type of stem cell, which less than different situations can establish into other kinds of cells. In principle, when injected in the knee, they can act to mend cartilage destruction related with osteoarthritis, the most prevalent (but by no means the only) induce of chronic knee ache in an more mature adult.

There is not more than enough evidence to assistance the use of stem mobile injection for knee arthritis. A new trial pursuing a few individuals for 5 several years after injection confirmed advancement at six months, then a constant deterioration, but continue to improved in comparison with pretreatment. Significantly larger sized trials are necessary prior to I could propose this cure. It is continue to regarded as experimental and you would have to shell out out of pocket, outside the house a scientific trial.

Despite the fact that it’s not easy, getting rid of only a couple kilos can absolutely strengthen symptoms, with out any other cure.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is not able to reply specific letters, but will integrate them in the column when feasible. Readers may perhaps email thoughts to [email protected] or mail mail to 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803.