Top in ID: Novavax COVID-19 booster; decline in varicella deaths

The FDA recently authorized a booster dose of Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine in adults aged 18 years and older.

The emergency use authorization was based on findings from the phase 3 PREVENT trial, in which a third dose of the vaccine given at least 6 months after the primary series induced an antibody response similar to that of the primary series, as well as results from the phase 2 COV-BOOST trial, which also indicated the vaccine was protective.

Another top story was about the success of the United States’ varicella vaccination, which has resulted in a 97% decrease in cases.

Read these and more top stories in infectious disease below:

US gives nod to Novavax’s COVID-19 booster as alternative to mRNA shots

The FDA has authorized a booster shot of Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, giving the United States an option for people who cannot or will not receive a messenger RNA vaccine. Read more.

Varicella deaths in US have ‘practically been eliminated’ by vaccination

Since its start 25 years ago, the varicella vaccine program in the United States has led to high vaccination coverage, resulting in a 97% decrease in cases of the disease also known as chickenpox, according to data presented at IDWeek. Read more.

Five US airports screening travelers from Uganda in response to Ebola outbreak

The U.S. has begun screening travelers from Uganda in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak. Read more.

Patients with CDI given ridinilazole had sustained clinical response, fewer recurrences

Nearly three out of every four patients with Clostridioides difficile infection being treated with ridinilazole had a sustained clinical response, according to data presented at IDWeek. Read more.

IDSA announces courage award honoring Fauci

The Infectious Diseases Society of America announced the creation of an award honoring National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony S. Fauci, MD. Read more.