I've been a fervent supporter of the vaccine, but I got an email saying the Moderna variant booster well be available shortly. That would make 5 shots, 3 this calendar year. It's getting to be a bit absurd, so this would be promising.
Just got my updated Moderna booster today with a flu shot. Flu shoulder hurts more so far. That will change drastically soon enough. Tomorrow shoulder soreness will be the least of my worries as I lie in bed with chills. Fun times. Better than actually having flu and COVID at the same time.
I got my flu shot and there was no symptoms. My arm didn't even hurt. It's actually better if you have symptoms, it means your immune system is responding.
I would be getting an antbody count before a 5th jab
@barjoe medicare won't cover it here either, but 100 and something bucks for a count..........not too painful.
Just be good to know if you actually need one as it will pick up any naturally acquired protection as well. It is not beyond the realm of possibility you unwittingly caught it and have the super dooper combination of antibodies already. Too much of a good thing not good for you either.
It would be unfortunate if cost is the deciding factor.
@barjoe Know what you mean. My teeth need work, have a public health system here but dental has about a 2 year waiting list, which is pretty useless. Not bad enough for emergency so I live with it.
I would still check out how much an antibody count would cost there, or else if in your situation I would be tempted to wait until next seasons jab, confident the strain kicking around now is far less virulent.
Whatever you think is best for you but they're your two realistic options as far as I can see; Get a 5th, 3rd in a year, or wait until next year.
Just my take, your life.