Florida discourages mRNA Covid vaccine use in older adults

Even as the Covid wave in Florida continues, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration is once again advising against the mRNA vaccines: this time in older adults.

Even as the Covid wave in Florida continues, Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration is once again advising against the mRNA vaccines: this time in the most vulnerable residents.

In updated guidance for health care providers released Thursday, the Florida Health Department and state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo questioned the safety and effectiveness of the mRNA Covid vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, including for older adults and people with underlying health problems. “Any provider concerned about the health risks associated with Covid-19 for patients over the age of 65 or with underlying health conditions should prioritize patient access to non-mRNA Covid-19 vaccines and treatment,” according to the state guidance.

Standing in opposition to advice from federal health agencies and other medical experts about the safety of the Covid vaccines, the Florida Health Department said the recommendation was based on high rates of immunity from prior infections and “currently available data.”

Without noting the high risk of serious Covid infection or hospitalization for older adults, the guidance listed safety concerns for the mRNA vaccines, including the risk of a rare heart condition called myocarditis, as well as the risk of POTS, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, a debilitating heart condition. 

Numerous studies have shown that both Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines are indeed associated with a small but increased risk of myocarditis. However, most cases occur in young men and most people make a full recovery. Studies have also shown that the risk of myocarditis is much higher with a Covid infection and is often more severe than the vaccine-associated condition.

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/florida-covid-shots-mrna-vaccines-older-adults-rcna170997

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