COVID-19 Vaccine

Virus mutations are common, and SARS-CoV-2 variants continue being detected. The CDC is monitoring these variants and tracking spread across the U.S., as well as the effect on infection and disease. Researchers are also checking vaccine effectiveness against the different variants. 

As of Nov. 30, the CDC recognized Omicron as a new variant of concern. There aren't a lot of details at this time. They will continue tracking the mutation and its impact. 

This past summer and fall, the Delta variant spread faster and caused more infections. According to the CDC, it has 

• Increased transmissibility²⁹
• Potential reduction in neutralization by some EUA monoclonal antibody treatments ^{7, 14}
• Potential reduction in neutralization by post-vaccination sera ²¹

It is important to note that all the variants appear to have increased efficiency in spreading from person to person so the use of mitigation measures like masks, ventilation, hand washing, physical distancing, and quarantine are paramount. A Variant Classification scheme that defines three classes of SARS-CoV-2 variants has been developed and information for the different variants is provided at the links below:

• Variant of Interest
• Variant of Concern
• Variant of High Consequence

The B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), B.1.427 (Epsilon), B.1.429 (Epsilon), and B.1.617.2 (Delta) variants circulating in the United States are classified as variants of concern. Use the CDC's map to see where the different variants are found in the U.S.

COVID-19 vaccines with EUAs for booster doses and pediatric vaccines. 

See the CDC's effectiveness overview. 

• COVID-19 Vaccination During Pregnancy Is Key to Saving Lives: This joint statement reinforces that pregnant individuals are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 infection, ICU admission, and death, as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes. If an individual is pregnant, the best way to protect themselves and their pregnancy against the potential harm.
• CDC Recommends Pregnant People Be Vaccinated Against COVID-19: Growing evidence about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy demonstrates that the benefits of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine outweigh any known or potential risks. 
• COVID-19 Vaccines in Pregnancy: With more than 20 health care organizations, the AAFP strongly urges individuals who are pregnant, recently pregnant, planning to become pregnant or lactating to be vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Coding and Payment

The American Medical Association continues publishing COVID-19 vaccine and administration codes. Their unique structure allows for tracking and accommodating multiple COVID-19 vaccines.  

• How to Code Third Doses of COVID-19 Vaccines: These codes are only to be used for third doses for immunocompromised individuals, which are different than booster shots. 
• COVID-19 Vaccine Coverage Requirements and Preliminary Payment Guidance: Information on coverage for vaccine administration and related services.
  

CDC's COVID-19 Vaccine Resources

Check out information on the CDC's COVID-19 site, including:

• COVID-19 Vaccination Communication Toolkit for Medical Centers, Clinics, and Clinicians
• COVID-19 Vaccine Training Module
  
• COVID-19 Vaccine Facts
• Understanding mRNA Vaccines
• CDC Process for Vaccine Recommendations

Expect updates to this site, plus CDC’s Vaccination and Immunization site, as more information is available. It's critical that jurisdictions and federal entities receiving vaccine have information to implement an effective COVID-19 vaccination program.