### No More COVID-19 Vaccines Available in Baja California
**By: TJGringo Team | August 8, 2024**
**Tijuana, Baja California** – Pfizer/BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine, which had begun being sold in early 2024, is no longer available in authorized pharmacies across Baja California.
At the end of December 2023, Mexico’s Federal Commission for Protection against Health Risks (Cofepris) approved the sale of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in select pharmacy chains, including Del Ahorro, Benavides, and Guadalajara in Baja California. However, only Del Ahorro and Benavides saw the vaccine in stock as it was never available in Guadalajara pharmacies.
As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Baja California and Mexico, our team investigated the current availability of the vaccine and found none. Employees at Benavides revealed that the last batch received was in March, comprising only 20 units. Unfortunately, these doses had to be re-cataloged as “expired” two months later. Currently, the vaccine does not even appear in their inventory system, indicating a similar situation across other branches.
Del Ahorro faced parallel setbacks, halting vaccine sales after regular weekly transactions of approximately 40 doses. Store employees mentioned they stopped receiving new supplies without any explanations.
Other than the Pfizer vaccine, the only available option from the health sector is the Cuban-origin Abdalá vaccine, designated for frontline responders, medical personnel, vulnerable groups, and seniors.
### Further Developments on COVID-19 and Vaccines
**1. New COVID-19 Strain Detected in Mexico**
As of early August 2024, a new variant of the COVID-19 virus has been detected in various regions of Mexico, leading to an increase in confirmed cases. Health authorities are urging the public to adhere to preventive measures and considering re-imposing certain restrictions to contain the spread.
**2. Booster Campaign Underway for Vulnerable Groups**
Despite vaccine shortages, health officials have launched a booster campaign using the Abdalá vaccine to cover high-risk populations. This effort is crucial to protect the most vulnerable as new variants continue to emerge.
**3. Moderna Files for Emergency Use Authorization of New Booster**
In light of recent developments, Moderna has filed for emergency use authorization for its updated booster shot designed to target the latest COVID-19 variants. Pending approval, this could provide an additional layer of protection and help mitigate the spread during the impending flu season.
**4. Hospitals Brace for Possible Surge**
Hospitals in Baja California and throughout Mexico are bracing for a possible surge in COVID-19 cases. Preparations include expanding ICU capacity, securing additional medical supplies, and ensuring adequate staffing.
Stay updated with TJGringo.com for the latest on COVID-19 news, vaccine availability, and health guidelines.