The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a recommendation for all individuals aged six months and older to receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine in preparation for the upcoming fall and winter virus season. The new vaccines, produced by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, are expected to be available this week.
The CDC emphasizes that vaccination remains the most effective means of protection against severe outcomes related to COVID-19, including hospitalization and death. Additionally, getting vaccinated can decrease the risk of developing Long COVID, a condition characterized by prolonged symptoms following acute infection.
The new recommendation comes as a response to the continuous mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the gradual decline of vaccine-induced immunity over time. Updated vaccines aim to restore and enhance protection against the currently dominant variants causing the majority of infections and hospitalizations in the United States.
Preliminary data from the previous year indicated a higher level of protection against illness and hospitalization among individuals who received the 2022-2023 COVID-19 vaccine compared to those who did not. To date, hundreds of millions of people have safely received a COVID-19 vaccine under rigorous safety monitoring protocols.
Most Americans can access COVID-19 vaccines free of charge. People with health insurance can typically get the vaccine at no cost through their plans. Those without health insurance or whose plans do not cover the vaccine can receive it free of charge at local health centers, state, local, tribal, or territorial health departments, and pharmacies participating in the CDC’s Bridge Access Program. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can also receive the vaccine from a provider enrolled in that program.
Dr. Mandy Cohen, Director of the CDC, highlighted the importance of staying up-to-date with vaccinations. “We have more tools than ever to prevent the worst outcomes from COVID-19,” said Cohen. “CDC is now recommending updated COVID-19 vaccination for everyone 6 months and older to better protect you and your loved ones.”
This fall and winter season marks the first time vaccines are available for the three viruses responsible for most hospitalizations – COVID-19, RSV, and flu. In addition to the updated COVID-19 vaccines, at-home tests for the virus can aid in early detection and prevention of spread within communities. The CDC also encourages individuals who become sick to consult their healthcare providers about effective treatments that can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
For more information on updated COVID-19 vaccines visit:  cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/.
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