Fall is upon us, the kids are back in school, and a summer surge of COVID-19 seems to be continuing into September. But there’s also a new updated COVID-19 vaccine available. Here’s what you need to know about this year’s shot, and how to get it.
What’s New About the 2024 Vaccine?
The new vaccine is designed to target the new COVID variants that emerged in 2024, including the new KP.2 omicron variant. While the vaccine won’t absolutely protect against contracting COVID, it will help to protect against serious illness and hospitalization.
Who Should Get It?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months or older get the vaccine as soon as possible. It’s especially important for those in higher-risk categories, such as those who are immuno-compromised, over 75, or pregnant. Anyone who recently had an infection, though, should wait three months before getting the vaccine.
Where Can You Get the Vaccine in Madison?
Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are now booking appointments to get the vaccine. You can also search by zip code and find additional vaccination locations at Vaccines.gov.
How Much Will It Cost?
Most people with private insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare will be able to get vaccinated at no cost. But due to a lack of state and federal funding, uninsured adults are not currently eligible to receive free vaccinations. The out-of-pocket cost could be over $200. However, Public Health Madison & Dane County officials say some federal funding was just released, so check their immunizations page for up-to-date information.
