COVID VARIANT UPDATE: BA.2.86
This isn't a pro/con vax post. It's just information everyone should know on the latest couple of covid variants. Here is a quick summary of the article.
The new variant BA.2.86 is more resistant to the vaccine and to prior infection. So far, it does not appear to be more dangerous than Omicron. The current vaccine does not target this variant specifically, but the CDC recommends that everyone get it anyway because they think it will provide some protection.
With holiday gatherings increasing, airborne infections (covid, flu) are likely to cause an increase in cases in the near future. Since the vaccine takes 2-3 weeks to become effective, if you want vaccine protection, you should be getting your booster now.
If you don't plan to get vaccinated, you should be taking steps to boost your immune system for the coming flu/covid season. I'm already hearing people coughing at supermarkets and at the gym. Oh, and if you're overweight, now would be a good time to resolve to be lighter on Jan 1st than you are today.