New COVID Booster Shot Now Available

What Is the New COVID-19 Booster Shot?

An updated COVID-19 booster shot is now available. The updated vaccine is a refined version of its predecessors, created specifically to combat the newest variants of the virus circulating in the population.

Beyond offering protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death related to COVID-19, this vaccine also reduces the risk of Long COVID, a condition that can persist for months after an acute infection.

Why Is It Important?

Over time, our immunity from the initial COVID-19 vaccines can wane.

This new booster is designed to restore and even heighten that protection. It is particularly effective against the latest variants responsible for most U.S. infections and hospitalizations. Data from last season revealed that individuals who received the 2022-2023 COVID-19 vaccine had significantly greater protection against severe illness and hospitalization compared to those who didn't.

When Can You Get It?

Here is what you need to know about when you can get the new COVID-19 Booster Shot:

• Eligibility—The CDC has given a green light for everyone aged 6 months and older to get the updated vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna.
• Availability—The booster is available now and availability will increase over the next few weeks.

The CDC advises anyone who has not received a COVID-19 vaccine shot in the past two months to get this update.

Where Can You Access the Booster?

You can get the updated COVID-19 vaccine at most conventional vaccination locations:

• Healthcare provider offices
• Local pharmacies

Most Americans are eligible for a free vaccine.

The availability of updated vaccines marks a significant stride in our fight against COVID-19. Not only are these vaccines crucial for individual health, but they also play a vital role in the collective effort to curb the pandemic.

For convenient access, you can find a location near you by visiting vaccines.gov.