Updated COVID Vaccine

The virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, is always changing and protection from COVID-19 vaccines declines over time. COVID-19 vaccines are updated to give you the best protection from strains that are around currently. That’s why COVID vaccines are referred to as updated vaccines, now instead of boosters.  They have been “updated” annually, as opposed to using a dose of a previous formula to “boost” immunity. These updated vaccines usually come out in the fall, and receiving one can restore and enhance protection against the versions of the virus currently responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States. COVID-19 vaccination also reduces the chance of suffering the effects of Long COVID, which can develop during or after acute infection and last for an extended duration.

Individuals who have recently had COVID-19 may delay getting a COVID-19 vaccine for 3-6 months (check with your primary care provider or the pharmacist to see what their recommendation is).

Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccine is especially important if you:

• Never received a COVID-19 vaccine
• Are age 65 years and older
• Are at high risk for severe COVID-19
• Are living in a long-term care facility
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant or might become pregnant in the future
• Want to lower your risk of getting Long COVID