{"id":30,"date":"2026-11-06T09:06:21","date_gmt":"2026-11-06T09:06:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/?p=30"},"modified":"2026-11-06T09:06:21","modified_gmt":"2026-11-06T09:06:21","slug":"what-to-know-about-the-2025-2026-covid-vaccine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/?p=30","title":{"rendered":"What to Know About the 2025-2026 COVID Vaccine"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"health-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp health-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block structured-content article-content expert-content right-rail__offset lock-journey\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"60\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"24\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"4\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[400, 1400, 1400, 1700, 2000, 2200, 2400, 2600, 2800]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<div id=\"health-sc-block-callout--key-takeaway_1-0\" class=\"comp health-sc-block-callout--key-takeaway health-sc-block-callout-base mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-key-takeaway theme-key-takeaway\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block expert-content\">\n<ul>\n<li>Three COVID vaccines are available for children in different age groups: Moderna (6 months or older with at least one qualifying health condition), Pfizer (5 years or older), and Novavax (12 years or older)<\/li>\n<li>The CDC recommends that people of all ages consult with a healthcare provider before getting a COVID shot.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Most people older than 6 months were eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot before, but this year, the vaccination recommendations are a bit more complicated.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Here\u2019s what to know about who should get the updated 2025\u201326 COVID-19 vaccine and when.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mm-ads-native_1-0\" class=\"comp mm-ads-native \" style=\"--native-ad-height: auto\" data-right-rail-index=\"1\">\n<div id=\"mm-ads-native__adunit_1-0\" class=\"comp mm-ads-native__adunit mm-ads-gpt-dynamic-adunit mm-ads-gpt-adunit scads-to-load gpt native js-immediate-ad js-immediate-ad-loaded\">\n<div id=\"native\" class=\"wrapper\" data-type=\"native\" data-pos=\"native\" data-priority=\"4\" data-sizes=\"[[1, 3],&quot;fluid&quot;]\" data-rtb=\"false\" data-wait-for-third-party=\"false\" data-targeting=\"{}\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-what-to-know-about-covid-vaccines-for-kids\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What to Know About COVID Vaccines for Kids <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> For children 6 months and older, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/shared-clinical-decision-making-11936926\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\">shared clinical-decision-making<\/a>&#8221; process between the health care provider and the parent or guardian about whether to give the COVID vaccine.<span data-cite=\"11\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span><span data-cite=\"12\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_8-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) differs from the CDC and&nbsp;<strong>strongly recommends COVID-19 shots for all children ages 6 months to 23 months<\/strong>.<span data-cite=\"13\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span><br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfid.org\/about-nfid\/board-of-directors\/william-schaffner-md\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\nWilliam Schaffner, MD<\/a>, a spokesperson for the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, said the CDC language means that some healthcare providers may not offer the vaccine unless parents ask for it.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_10-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Schaffner noted that the specific guidance for how many doses to give a child and when can be confusing.<span data-cite=\"1\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span> \u201cIt gets fairly thorny and involved in pediatric practice,&#8221; he said. &#8220;As an internist, I say, \u2018Listen to your pediatrician or family doctor, do what they say.'&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_13-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Schaffner said vaccinating young children is especially important. According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/acip\/downloads\/slides-2025-06-25-26\/02-MacNeil-COVID-508.pdf\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">data<\/a> presented to a CDC advisory committee in June 2025, children younger than 2 accounted for 57% of the COVID-related pediatric hospitalizations between July 2024 and May 2025. Young children are hospitalized with COVID at a similar rate to adults 65 to 74 years old.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\"> Limited Vaccine Options for Kids <\/span> <\/h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Even if a healthcare provider recommends an updated COVID shot for a child, they may have few options to choose from.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_18-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> The FDA on Aug. 27, 2025 revoked the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine in children younger than 5.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_20-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> During the pandemic, the EUAs allowed for a faster rollout of vaccines, while full FDA approval requires more data on the manufacturing process and long-term safety. A full approval can boost public confidence in the vaccine&#8217;s safety and efficacy and prevent the FDA from pulling it from the market at will.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_23-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> In July 2025, the FDA granted <a href=\"https:\/\/feeds.issuerdirect.com\/news-release.html?newsid=5090085430616980&amp;symbol=MRNA\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">full approval to Moderna&#8217;s COVID vaccine (called Spikevax) for children aged 6 months to 11 years<\/a>, but only for those with at least one health condition that raises their risk of severe illness from COVID.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_25-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfid.org\/person\/robert-h-hopkins-jr-md\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Robert Hopkins, Jr, MD<\/a>, medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, said in July 2025 that the Moderna approval is a &#8220;positive step forward.&#8221; However, he added, &#8220;limiting the approval to children who have at least one underlying condition creates a barrier for those who want their children to get vaccinated.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_27-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-digiohembed mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-digiohembed_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-digiohembed mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"lightbox-inline-form-d6b1ce8f-ffcf-49f7-9130-c9a0962426b2\" class=\"mntl-sc-block-digiohembed__container digioh-inline-unit digioh-inline-unit--sc\" data-guid=\"lightbox-inline-form-d6b1ce8f-ffcf-49f7-9130-c9a0962426b2\" data-title=\"\">\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<div id=\"health-sc-block-spotlight--mid-circ_1-0\" class=\"comp health-sc-block-spotlight--mid-circ mntl-sc-block-spotlight--mid-circ mntl-block theme-mid-circ theme-mid-circ\" data-use-proximity=\"true\">\n<h2 id=\"midcirc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp midcirc__heading mntl-text-block\">Related Stories<\/h2>\n<div id=\"midcirc__card-list_1-0\" class=\"comp midcirc__card-list mntl-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/how-long-does-covid-last-8547620\" rel=\"nocaes\" data-card-index=\"0\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" id=\"midcirc-card_1-0\" class=\"midcirc-card mntl-midcirc-card mntl-text-link \" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"midcirc-card__title_1-0\" class=\"comp midcirc-card__title mntl-text-block\">How Long Does COVID-19 Last?<\/div>\n<div id=\"midcirc-card__image-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp midcirc-card__image-wrapper mntl-block\">\n<div class=\"midcirc-card__image mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.6%;\">\n<img data-src=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/cV4zlBE_qz3kzESyo5ANpE8roGQ=\/300x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1156406826-5b7dcb3014e84f0981a2d177d9d7b9cd.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" alt=\"Sick young woman lying in bed covered with blanket holding a cup of hot tea\" class=\" universal-image__image lazyloadwait\"><br \/>\n<noscript><br \/>\n<img\nsrc=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/cV4zlBE_qz3kzESyo5ANpE8roGQ=\/300x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1156406826-5b7dcb3014e84f0981a2d177d9d7b9cd.jpg\"\nwidth=\"300\"\nheight=\"200\"\nclass=\"img--noscript universal-image__image\"\nalt=\"Sick young woman lying in bed covered with blanket holding a cup of hot tea\"\n\/><br \/>\n<\/noscript>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/what-to-do-with-a-positive-at-home-covid-test-result-5210146\" rel=\"nocaes\" data-card-index=\"1\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" id=\"midcirc-card_2-0\" class=\"midcirc-card mntl-midcirc-card mntl-text-link \" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"midcirc-card__title_2-0\" class=\"comp midcirc-card__title mntl-text-block\">What to Do With a Positive At-Home COVID Test<\/div>\n<div id=\"midcirc-card__image-wrapper_2-0\" class=\"comp midcirc-card__image-wrapper mntl-block\">\n<div class=\"midcirc-card__image mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\" style=\"padding-bottom:66.6%;\">\n<img data-src=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/acLrsqdEEddk1qyRFS28atar8ko=\/300x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1335957608-0d1cd668154a4adea183cf21a17e9538.jpg\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" alt=\"COVID test\" class=\" universal-image__image lazyloadwait\"><br \/>\n<noscript><br \/>\n<img\nsrc=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/acLrsqdEEddk1qyRFS28atar8ko=\/300x200\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/GettyImages-1335957608-0d1cd668154a4adea183cf21a17e9538.jpg\"\nwidth=\"300\"\nheight=\"200\"\nclass=\"img--noscript universal-image__image\"\nalt=\"COVID test\"\n\/><br \/>\n<\/noscript>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_30-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-covid-shot-guidance-for-adults\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> COVID Shot Guidance for Adults <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_32-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> In August 2025, the FDA leaders limited COVID vaccine availability to those 65 or older, as well as younger adults who have at least one health condition that puts them at risk for severe disease.<span data-cite=\"4\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> However, the latest CDC guidelines recommend that <strong>anyone who wants a COVID vaccine <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/covid-vaccine-guidance-cdc-panel-11814059\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\"><strong>should consult a healthcare provider first<\/strong><\/a>.<span data-cite=\"10\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_35-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Those conditions include:<span data-cite=\"4\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_37-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<li>Asthma<\/li>\n<li>Cancer<\/li>\n<li>Diabetes<\/li>\n<li>Pregnancy<\/li>\n<li>Depression<\/li>\n<li>Chronic lung diseases<\/li>\n<li>HIV<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_40-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201cCome this fall, you should get a dose of COVID vaccine, certainly, if you fit into any of these high-risk groups,&#8221; Schaffner said. &#8220;If you don&#8217;t, but you still want to get the COVID vaccine, have a discussion with your provider. Under shared clinical decision-making, you may still get it.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-guidance-for-immunocompromised-people-remains-unchanged\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_42-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Guidance for Immunocompromised People Remains Unchanged <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_43-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Similarly, the CDC says that people who are moderately or severely immunocompromised should decide with their healthcare provider about whether to receive the COVID vaccine.<span data-cite=\"8\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_44-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_45-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> If so, the CDC recommends that immunocompromised individuals be fully vaccinated with an initial series and get at least one dose of the updated vaccine. They can consider additional doses of vaccine, as long as they are given at least two months apart.<span data-cite=\"8\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_46-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_47-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> People with medical conditions or who take medications that dampen their immune system will have different health needs and considerations. It\u2019s best to talk to your physician to figure out a COVID vaccine strategy that works for you.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_48-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-confusion-around-vaccine-guidance-for-pregnant-people\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_49-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Confusion Around Vaccine Guidance for Pregnant People <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_50-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Confusingly, medical authorities offer differing recommendations about whether pregnant people should get the COVID vaccine.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_51-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_52-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> The FDA approved the Spikevax vaccine <strong>for people under age 65 who have &#8220;at least one underlying condition that increases their risk for severe COVID.&#8221;<\/strong> Pregnancy is listed as one such qualifying condition.<span data-cite=\"14\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_53-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_54-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> However, the CDC again advises &#8220;shared decision making&#8221; about the vaccine&#8217;s risks and benefits for pregnant people, while noting that <strong>&#8220;COVID-19 vaccination offers the greatest benefit if you are at higher risk for severe illness, including if you are pregnant.&#8221;<\/strong><span data-cite=\"15\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_55-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_56-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> <strong>The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acog.org\/news\/news-releases\/2025\/05\/acog-statement-on-hhs-recommendations-regarding-the-covid-vaccine-during-pregnancy\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>continues to recommend<\/strong><\/a><strong> COVID vaccination during pregnancy<\/strong>. ACOG President Steven Fleischman said, &#8220;We are worried about our patients in the future, who may be less likely to choose vaccination during pregnancy despite the clear and definitive evidence demonstrating its benefit.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_57-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-will-insurance-still-cover-covid-shots\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_58-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Will Insurance Still Cover COVID Shots? <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_59-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> <strong>Health insurers still have to cover COVID vaccines under the &#8220;individual-based-decision-making&#8221; recommendation.<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_60-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_61-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> Most health insurers are legally required to cover the cost of vaccination if it is recommended by the CDC advisory panel and then greenlit by the CDC Director.<span data-cite=\"9\" class=\"inline-citation-node\"><\/span> That includes private insurers, <strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>Medicare Part D, and Medicaid expansion insurers. Traditional Medicaid and CHIP programs only need an advisory panel recommendation.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_62-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"toc-when-and-where-to-get-the-202526-covid-vaccine\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_63-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block health-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"> <span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> When and Where to Get the 2025\u201326 COVID Vaccine <\/span> <\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_64-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.businesswire.com\/news\/home\/20250822994391\/en\/Pfizer-and-BioNTechs-COMIRNATY-Receives-U.S.-FDA-Approval-for-Adults-65-and-Older-and-Individuals-Ages-5-through-64-at-Increased-Risk-for-Severe-COVID-19\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Pfizer<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/feeds.issuerdirect.com\/news-release.html?newsid=6729249760870595&amp;symbol=MRNA\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Moderna<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;said&nbsp;their vaccines would be available in&nbsp;pharmacies across the country.&nbsp;<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_65-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_66-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> The U.S. still sees the biggest waves of COVID in the late fall and winter, though there tends to be an uptick in cases during the summer months, too.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_67-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_68-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you\u2019re eligible, you can still get the COVID and flu vaccines during the same visit. Older adults who are due for a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine can also get that shot then.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_69-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_70-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> If you were recently sick with COVID, the CDC recommends waiting at least three months for your next COVID vaccine, when your immune response may start to wane again.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_71-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_72-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> &#8220;As both a doctor and a dad, I always remind my patients\u2014and my own family\u2014that simple habits can go a long way in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses,&#8221; Hopkins said.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_73-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-adslot mntl-block\"><\/div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_74-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"> That includes getting vaccinated, keeping your distance from people who are sick, staying home when you don&#8217;t feel well, wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, and practicing good hand washing.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"post-article_1-0\" class=\"comp post-article mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read More:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block text-utility-200\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/news-4846412\" rel=\"nocaes\" class=\"mntl-text-link mntl-breadcrumbs__link\" id=\"mntl-text-link_5-0\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">News<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block text-utility-200\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/health-news-4844929\" rel=\"nocaes\" class=\"mntl-text-link mntl-breadcrumbs__link\" id=\"mntl-text-link_6-0\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Health News<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"sources_1-0\" class=\"comp sources mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">10 Sources<\/span><br \/>\n<svg class=\"icon show-icon \">\n<use xmlns_xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" xlink_href=\"#show-icon\" href=\"#show-icon\"><\/use>\n<\/svg><br \/>\n<svg class=\"icon hide-icon \">\n<use xmlns_xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" xlink_href=\"#hide-icon\" href=\"#hide-icon\"><\/use>\n<\/svg><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"source-guidelines_1-0\" class=\"comp source-guidelines mntl-text-block\">Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our <a href=\"\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042\">editorial process<\/a> to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-11\">\n<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/vaccines\/imz-schedules\/child-easyread.html\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Recommended vaccinations for children<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-12\">\n<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/acip\/vaccine-recommendations\/shared-clinical-decision-making.html\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ACIP shared clinical decision-making recommendations<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-13\">\n<p>American Academy of Pediatrics. <a href=\"https:\/\/downloads.aap.org\/AAP\/PDF\/AAP-Immunization-Schedule.pdf?_gl=1*1oao3yl*_gcl_au*MTUyMjQxOTU0Ni4xNzU1NzA1OTMz*_ga*MTY0OTA4NDI4Ny4xNzU1NzA1OTMz*_ga_GMZCQS1K47*czE3NTU3MDU5MzIkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTU3MDU5NDgkajQ0JGwwJGgw*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*czE3NTU3MDU5MzIkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTU3MDU5NDgkajQ0JGwwJGgw\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/downloads.aap.org\/AAP\/PDF\/AAP-Immunization-Schedule.pdf?_gl=1*1oao3yl*_gcl_au*MTUyMjQxOTU0Ni4xNzU1NzA1OTMz*_ga*MTY0OTA4NDI4Ny4xNzU1NzA1OTMz*_ga_GMZCQS1K47*czE3NTU3MDU5MzIkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTU3MDU5NDgkajQ0JGwwJGgw*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*czE3NTU3MDU5MzIkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTU3MDU5NDgkajQ0JGwwJGgw\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Schedule for Ages 18 Years or Younger<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/vaccines\/hcp\/imz-schedules\/child-adolescent-notes.html#note-covid-19\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Child Immunization Schedule Notes.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-4\">\n<p>Prasad V, Makary M. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1056\/nejmsb2506929\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">An evidence-based approach to Covid-19 vaccination<\/a>. <em>N Engl J Med<\/em>. 2025;392:2484-2486. doi:10.1056\/NEJMsb2506929<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-10\">\n<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/media\/releases\/2025\/cdc-immunization-schedule-adopts-individual-based-decision.html\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CDC Immunization Schedule Adopts Individual-Based Decision-Making for COVID-19 and Standalone Vaccination for Chickenpox in Toddlers<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-8\">\n<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/covid\/hcp\/vaccine-considerations\/immunocompromised.html\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance for People Who Are Immunocompromised<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-14\">\n<p>U.S. Food and Drug Administration. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/media\/155675\/download?attachment\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Spikevax prescribing label<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-15\">\n<p>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/covid\/vaccines\/pregnant-or-breastfeeding.html\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">COVID-19 Vaccination for Women Who Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-9\">\n<p>KFF. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kff.org\/other\/issue-brief\/acip-cdc-and-insurance-coverage-of-vaccines-in-the-united-states\/\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ACIP, CDC, and insurance coverage of vaccines in the United States<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-bio_1-0\" class=\"comp author-bio\">\n<div class=\"loc author-bio__image\">\n<img data-src=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/D6Xo0shy_SmM6UBx8prGuz79stQ=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/grad111-b39b11256df2462c8b04851148a78e31.jpg\" width=\"144\" height=\"144\" alt=\"Claire Bugos.\" class=\" author-bio__image mntl-image universal-image__image lazyloadwait\" data-expand=\"300\"><br \/>\n<noscript><br \/>\n<img\nsrc=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/thmb\/D6Xo0shy_SmM6UBx8prGuz79stQ=\/144x144\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)\/grad111-b39b11256df2462c8b04851148a78e31.jpg\"\nwidth=\"144\"\nheight=\"144\"\nclass=\"img--noscript author-bio__image mntl-image universal-image__image\"\nalt=\"Claire Bugos.\"\n\/><br \/>\n<\/noscript>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"author-bio__bio-text\">\n<span class=\"author-bio__bio-title\">By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/claire-bugos-5081436\">Claire Bugos<\/a><\/span><br \/>\n<br \/>\nBugos is a senior news reporter at Verywell Health. She holds a bachelor&#8217;s degree in journalism from Northwestern University.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"trust-ribbon_1-0\" class=\"comp trust-ribbon trust-ribbon-expandable-block\">\n<div class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"loc static-content\">\n<div id=\"trust-ribbon__editorial_1-0\" class=\"comp trust-ribbon__editorial trust-ribbon-item mntl-block\"><svg class=\"icon trust-ribbon-item__icon-editorial \">\n<use xmlns_xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" xlink_href=\"#trust-ribbon-item__icon-editorial\" href=\"#trust-ribbon-item__icon-editorial\"><\/use>\n<\/svg><br \/>\n<a href=\"\/verywell-editorial-process-4777042\" rel=\"nocaes\" class=\"trust-ribbon-item__text mntl-text-link \" id=\"trust-ribbon-item__text_1-0\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">See Our Editorial Process<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<div id=\"trust-ribbon__review_1-0\" class=\"comp trust-ribbon__review trust-ribbon-item mntl-block\"><svg class=\"icon reviewer-icon trust-ribbon-item__icon-review\">\n<use xmlns_xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" xlink_href=\"#reviewer-icon\" href=\"#reviewer-icon\"><\/use>\n<\/svg><br \/>\n<a href=\"\/meet-our-medical-expert-board-11762003\" rel=\"nocaes\" class=\"trust-ribbon-item__text mntl-text-link \" id=\"trust-ribbon-item__text_2-0\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Meet Our Medical Expert Board<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"trust-ribbon__feedback_1-0\" class=\"comp trust-ribbon__feedback trust-ribbon-item mntl-block\"><svg class=\"icon trust-ribbon-item__icon-feedback \">\n<use xmlns_xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" xlink_href=\"#trust-ribbon-item__icon-feedback\" href=\"#trust-ribbon-item__icon-feedback\"><\/use>\n<\/svg><br \/>\n<button id=\"trust-ribbon-item__text_3-0\" class=\"comp trust-ribbon-item__text mntl-text-block\">Share Feedback<\/button><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"trust-ribbon__feedback-block_1-0\" class=\"comp trust-ribbon__feedback-block article-feedback mntl-article-feedback\">\n<div class=\"article-feedback__rating-section js-rating-section is-hidden\">\n<div class=\"article-feedback__heading\">Was this page helpful?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-feedback__success-section js-success-section is-hidden\">\n<div class=\"article-feedback__heading\">Thanks for your feedback!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-feedback__feedback-section js-feedback-section\">\n<div class=\"article-feedback__heading\">What is your feedback?<\/div>\n<p><button id=\"helpful-button_1-0\" class=\"comp helpful-button mntl-button article-feedback__feedback-button\"> Helpful<br \/>\n<\/button><br \/>\n<button id=\"report-error-button_1-0\" class=\"comp report-error-button mntl-button article-feedback__feedback-button\"> Report an Error<br \/>\n<\/button><br \/>\n<button id=\"other-button_1-0\" class=\"comp other-button mntl-button article-feedback__feedback-button\"> Other<br \/>\n<\/button><br \/>\n<svg class=\"icon icon-x close-button\">\n<use xmlns_xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\" xlink_href=\"#icon-x\" href=\"#icon-x\"><\/use>\n<\/svg> <\/p>\n<form action=\"\/ugc-feedback\" method=\"post\" class=\"article-feedback__feedback-form js-feedback-form\">\n<textarea class=\"article-feedback__feedback-text js-feedback-text\" placeholder=\"Tell us more...\" required=\"required\" maxlength=\"1500\"><\/textarea><br \/>\n<button id=\"article-feedback__submit-button_1-0\" class=\"comp article-feedback__submit-button mntl-button\"> Submit<br \/>\n<\/button> <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"doc-id\" value=\"11777880\" class=\"js-doc-id\"><br \/>\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Key Takeaways Three COVID vaccines are available for children in different age groups: Moderna (6 months or older with at least one qualifying health condition), Pfizer (5 years or older), and Novavax (12 years or older) The CDC recommends that&#8230; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-30","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-chua-phan-loai"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=30"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/30\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=30"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=30"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthcare.hibisports.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=30"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}