The National Scleroderma Foundation encourages appropriate vaccines and treatments to protect individuals within the scleroderma community from the serious complications that can result from COVID-19. Individuals should work with their medical team to ensure appropriate care. We are sharing important information from federal public health officials related to the treatment of COVID-19, that is supported by the National Scleroderma Foundation’s Medical & Scientific Advisory Board.
Last week, the Food and Drug Administration revised the Emergency Use Authorization for Evusheld (a COVID-19 vaccine) to limit its use to when the combined frequency of non-susceptible SARS-CoV-2 variants nationally is less than or equal to 90%. Based on this revision, Evusheld is not currently authorized for use in the U.S. until further notice by the FDA.
Data show Evusheld is unlikely to be active against certain SARS-CoV-2 variants. According to the most recent CDC Nowcast data, these variants are projected to be responsible for more than 90% of current infections in the U.S. This means that Evusheld is not expected to provide protection against developing COVID-19 if exposed to those variants.
We encourage individuals to get or remain current on their COVID-19 vaccinations. Learn more: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-announces-evusheld-not-currently-authorized-emergency-use-us.