None of us want to think about it but the statistics are undeniable that cases of COVID-19 are on the rise. Data from the Massachusetts Bureau of Infectious Diseases showed a marked increase in cases this summer since the beginning of July.
A number of variants have been identified since it first brought the world to a standstill, meaning for continued protection, an updated vaccine should be top of your list. The Centers for Disease Control is recommending multiple vaccines is recommending people get the new COVID-19 vaccine, which has evolved to better match the new strains.
The good news is that getting a vaccine is very easy and oftentimes free.
Where can I get the updated vaccine?
A doctor’s office, health center or pharmacy near you should all be offering the updated vaccine alongside the flu shot. Check your local CVS, Rite-Aid, Walgreens and the like. You can also go to Vaccines.gov or the website for the COVID-19 Mobile Vaccination Program to find additional locations.
Vaccinations from a local health department, community health center or the state-sponsored vaccine clinic are free to everyone. Children under 19 are also eligible for a free vaccination from their primary care physician or a community health center as well.
If you have health insurance, most plans should cover the vaccine at no cost to you.
Who should get the updated vaccine
Everyone who has not had a COVID vaccine since Sept. 12, 2023, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. So if you have not had a vaccine in the last year, now’s the time.
Dosage and type of vaccine varies by age, according to experts – children between six months and 11 years old should take the updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccine; those four and under may need up to three doses. Anyone over 12 can also get the updated Novavax vaccine but should get two doses of this if you have not received any COVID vaccine before this.
People over 65 should also plan to get an additional vaccination dose about four months after the first. People at higher risk, namely those who are immunocompromised, may also need additional doses.
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