Protect yourself against COVID-19. Get vaccinated!
The updated vaccines are called “updated” because they protect against both the original virus that causes COVID-19 and the Omicron variant XBB 1.5. None of the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines is preferred over another.
Recommendations for older adults who have problems with their immune system (immunocompromised)
People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine. A person is immunocompromised when their immune system is weak. These people may have more trouble fighting COVID-19 and are at higher risk of getting seriously sick or dying from COVID-19.You may have a weak immune system if you have cancer, diabetes, or heart conditions, for example. These are just a few of the diseases that can make your immune system weak. Please check with your healthcare professional to see if you have a medical problem that makes your immune system weak.
If you are immunocompromised, the recommendations for the 2023-2024 updated vaccines differ depending on your previous COVID vaccination history.
| Previous COVID-19 vaccination history | Which 2023-2024 Updated Vaccine is right for you |
|---|---|
| If you have never received a COVID-19 vaccine before |
Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech (3 doses) OR Novavax (2 doses) |
| If you have previously received 1 dose of the Moderna or Pfizer- BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine | Same manufacturer as your previous vaccine (2 doses) |
| If you have previously received 2 doses of the Moderna or Pfizer- BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine | Same manufacturer as your previous vaccines (1 dose) |
| If you have previously received 3 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine | 1 dose of Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, or Novavax |
| If you have previously received 1 or more doses of the Novavax or Janssen COVID-19 vaccine (including in combination with any mRNA vaccines) | 1 dose of Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, or Novavax |
The vaccine is currently available at no cost to you:
- If you have Medicare, you will not have to pay to get vaccinated.
- Medicaid and private health insurance plans cover all vaccine costs.
- If you are uninsured, you can get free vaccines.
Vaccines are available at many locations:
- Most drug stores
- Community health centers
- State or local health departments
Find a COVID-19 vaccine location near you:
- Ask your doctor or healthcare professional
- Call 1-800-232-0233
- Text your zip code to 438829 or visit vaccines.gov
Last Updated October 2023