Everything You Need to Know About Getting Vaccinated Today

In September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone 6 months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine to protect against severe COVID-19 illness this fall and winter. This updated vaccine formula targets the most commonly circulating variants.

Unfortunately, COVID-19 is here to stay. And like most viruses, it will continue to mutate. An updated annual vaccine is our best bet to continue to protect us from the most serious outcomes of COVID-19. 

Here is everything you need to know about the updated COVID-19 vaccines.

FAQs

Why do we have an updated vaccine (again)?

The COVID-19 virus mutates rapidly, and the vaccines we took over the past few years are less effective at protecting against the most current variants of COVID-19 circulating today. The effects of the initial vaccines have diminished over time, and getting updated vaccines that were developed to protect against the most common variants have been shown to strongly protect people against becoming seriously ill, being hospitalized, and dying.

Which vaccine is recommended to get?

COVID-19 vaccines recommended for use in the United States are:

  • Pfizer-BioNTech
  • Moderna

* Novavax’s updated COVID-19 vaccine is currently under review by the FDA for emergency use authorization in individuals aged 12 and older.

How long after infection/vaccination should I wait to get the new vaccine?

The decision on timing is a delicate balance and is different for everyone because it is based on your health risk factors and timing of recent infections.

  • Minimum wait: 3 months. You will not get much of an immune boost if you get the vaccine within 3 months post-infection or vaccination. Waiting a little longer will broaden your B cells, which acts as our second line of defense against infection.
  • Maximum wait: 8-12 months. Waiting a little bit longer in between vaccines can improve its effectiveness. But waiting too long can put you at risk of catching COVID-19 with limited protection, and is especially dangerous for high-risk people.

Other factors: With the holidays approaching and cooler weather driving us indoors, experts recommend getting your updated COVID-19 vaccine by mid-October if you’re eligible.

Do I have to get the same type of vaccines I got originally? Or is it safe to “mix and match” vaccines?

It is safe to mix the type of COVID-19 vaccines you receive.

Can I get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time?

You can get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines in the same visit. There have been many studies on the co-administration of these two vaccines, and the practice was shown to be safe and effective. It’s typically recommended to get them in different arms to reduce soreness.

Will I have to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine if I’m uninsured?

No, but you will need to get your vaccine from a vaccine provider participating in the Bridge Access Program. The Bridge Access Program provides continued access to COVID-19 vaccines at no cost for the uninsured and underinsured. If you do not have insurance, or if your insurance does not cover COVID-19 vaccines, you can go to any Walgreens, CVS or Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) to receive a vaccine for free.

Vaccines for Children (VFC)— a program that provides vaccines at no cost to children is also available through VFC-enrolled doctors.

To find COVID-19 vaccine locations near you: search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233.

 

When Are You Up to Date?

Everyone aged 5 years and older:

  • You are up to date when you get 1 updated COVID-19 vaccine.

Children aged 6 months—4 years:

  • You are up to date when you get all recommended doses, including at least 1 dose of updated COVID-19 vaccine.

Children aged 6 months—5 years who got the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine:

  • You are up to date when you get 2 Moderna COVID-19 vaccine doses, including at least 1 updated COVID-19 vaccine dose.

People who got the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine:

  • You are up to date when you get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine doses approved for your age group or when you get 1 updated COVID-19 vaccine.

People who got the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen COVID-19 vaccine:

  • You are up to date when you get 1 updated COVID-19 vaccine.

About COVID-19 Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States are effective at protecting people from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized, and dying. As with other vaccine-preventable diseases, you are best protected from COVID-19 when you stay up to date with the recommended vaccinations.

To find COVID-19 vaccine locations near you: search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1-800-232-0233.

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