Coronavirus vaccination campaign now underway: Israel’s Health Ministry has approved the country’s medical fund to begin administering Moderna’s latest vaccine, which targets new variants of the coronavirus.
This latest vaccine protects against both earlier strains, including the Omicron variant, and the newly spreading JN1 variant that has spread around the world, including in Israel.
Vaccinations are available through health insurance and are available at the same time as the annual influenza vaccination campaign.
The JN1 variant emerged after the initial Omicron strain spread globally. The virus has notable changes to the spike protein, the part of the virus that allows it to enter human cells. These changes make JN1 highly transmissible and have some resistance to early vaccines. Moderna’s new vaccine, based on mRNA technology, is specifically designed to combat this variant and provides optimal protection for people.
This coronavirus vaccination campaign is being carried out in parallel with influenza vaccination, and the Ministry of Health is encouraging people to receive both vaccines at the same time if possible. According to guidelines from the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, it is safe to receive both vaccines at the same time without any gaps. This approach aims to increase vaccination rates among the population and prevent the risk of contracting both coronavirus and influenza, which increases the likelihood of complications, especially for those at risk.
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the new vaccine. Elderly woman receiving vaccination (illustration) (Credit: INGIMAGE)
Which vaccines have been approved in Israel?
Israel has approved mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna. The latest vaccine targeting the JN1 variant is made by Moderna. Replaces previous version and no longer includes previous formulations.
How is the vaccine administered?
The vaccine is administered by injection into the deltoid muscle of the shoulder. The nurse disinfects the area and waits for it to dry before injecting the vaccine into the muscle. Vaccinations will be carried out at Health Fund clinics.
Which variants does the vaccine protect against?
The updated vaccine covers all major new coronavirus variants developed to date, including the previous Omicron strain and the new JN1 variant. Thanks to the flexibility of mRNA technology, Moderna was able to adjust its vaccine within months to address new variants.
At what age can I get the coronavirus vaccine?
Moderna’s latest JN1 vaccine is approved for people 6 months of age and older, according to the department’s guidelines. Dosage depends on age. Children aged 6 months to 11 years receive 0.25 mL, and those 12 years and older receive 0.5 mL.
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Is there anyone who cannot be vaccinated?
There are some exceptions. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine or are allergic to certain vaccine ingredients, such as polyethylene glycol, can receive the vaccine in a hospital setting under the supervision of a doctor. In some cases, pretreatment with steroids or antihistamines may be necessary. People with a high fever should wait at least 24 hours after their fever has subsided before receiving vaccinations, including the COVID-19 vaccine.
What side effects can I expect after vaccination?
As with most vaccines, mild side effects may occur. These may include pain at the injection site, fatigue, low-grade fever, muscle or joint pain, and chills. These effects usually resolve within 1 to 2 days.
Can other vaccines be given with the COVID vaccine?
Yes, other vaccines, such as the influenza and pertussis vaccines, can be given at the same time as the coronavirus vaccine. There is no need for spacing. Each vaccine is simply administered in different treatment groups.
Who should be particularly encouraged to get vaccinated? This vaccine is highly recommended for people who are at high risk of serious complications from coronavirus. This includes individuals over 60, nursing home residents, people with chronic conditions such as lung disease, diabetes, and heart disease, organ transplant recipients, and people with weakened immune systems. The vaccine is also recommended for healthcare and emergency care workers, people in close contact with the general public, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and people receiving treatments that weaken the immune system.
