The debate over the long-term safety of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines such as the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 inoculations continues. Although there are no long-term, controlled studies backing up the idea that mRNA vaccines may cause changes in the reactivity of the immune system, promote risky epigenetic changes, and open the door to serious health challenges, it's a topic worth keeping tabs on.

The development of mRNA vaccine technology won a Nobel Prize, so it's been judged valuable — and it has saved many lives.

But data from the Cleveland Clinic say having multiple mRNA vaccines/boosters may decrease your ability to fight COVID-19. That’s only one study; but if you want to avoid an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, there's good news.

A monovalent COVID-19 vaccine from Novavax made with classic — not mRNA — vaccine technology is now available. It targets the current SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (XBB.1.5), and is authorized for everyone ages 12 and older.

It's supposed to be available at no cost through private insurance and Medicare. If you’re uninsured or under-insured, check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's free vaccine initiative by Googling "Bridge Access Program;" then clicking on "Get No-Cost COVID-19 Vaccines Near You."  

Protection against the recent variant of COVID-19 is smart. I'm advising my patients who are 50 and older, and those with chronic diseases to get this newest booster soon.

Choose vaccine technology that suits you, and at every age get it to protect yourself from COVID-19 and help to protect older family members and friends from exposure to the virus.