Donald Trump Gets COVID-19 Booster and Flu Shot After CDC Limits Vaccine Recommendations

US President Donald Trump has received a COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot during his visit to Walter Reed Medical Center, his physician said in a memo released by the White House. “In preparation for upcoming

international travel, President Trump also received preventive health screenings and immunizations, including annual influenza and updated COVID-19 booster vaccinations,” Dr Sean Barbabella wrote. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shifted away from a broad recommendation for coronavirus immunization, those who want one must now consult with a doctor - a process known as shared clinical decision-making. However, you may not necessarily need a prescription for that.

Trump in "excellent health", says physician

Dr Barbabella also noted, without any evidence, that the president’s “cardiac age” is 14 years younger than his current 79 years. “President Trump continues to demonstrate excellent overall health. His cardiac age-a validated measure of cardiovascular vitality via ECG-was found to be approximately 14 years younger than his chronological age. He continues to maintain a demanding daily schedule without restriction,” Barbabella said. According to news reports, Trump’s visit to Walter Reed has been unusual, having been his second visit to the complex this year. He received a physical in April, and the president’s doctor described that as his “annual” examination. Trump has constantly faced scrutiny over regular bruising on his right hand, the media says, and he covers it up with heavy makeup. The White House physician has cited “frequent handshaking” and aspirin use as the cause. Earlier this year, the White House also disclosed that the President had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency.

COVID-19 vaccine new guidelines this Fall

Earlier this week, the CDC accepted controversial new guidelines for the updated COVID-19 vaccines that could make it harder for many people to protect themselves this winter. Acting CDC Director Jim O'Neill agreed to the recommendations from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s handpicked Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which made it flexible for people to talk to a doctor or a pharmacist about the risks and benefits of getting vaccinated before they get a shot. This extra step is called “shared decision-making,” or “individual-based decision-making", according to a press release. The step came after an unexplained two-week lag between when CDC advisers issued the recommendations and the agency accepted them. The official decision now makes it possible for the CDC to start shipping vaccines to doctors and clinics. “Informed consent is back,” O'Neill said in a statement announcing the step. “CDC's 2022 blanket recommendation for perpetual COVID-19 boosters deterred health care providers from talking about the risks and benefits of vaccination for the individual patient or parent. That changes today,” he added.