This information was accurate at the time of publication. Due to the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, some information may have changed since the original publication date.
As the COVID-19 virus continues to develop, so do the vaccines that help fight against the disease. This helps ensure we receive the most protective dose as new variants continue to emerge.
Because of this, everyone aged 6 months and older can receive a COVID-19 vaccine and are encouraged to receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine dose. This dose will continue to protect you from serious illness, hospitalization, and death from SARS-CoV-2.
It doesn’t mean the original COVID-19 vaccines don’t work. While the original monovalent vaccine was designed to protect against the original virus that causes COVID-19, the updated vaccines help protect you from newer variants.
That’s why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an updated Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine even if you’ve received an original COVID-19 vaccine. This dose will continue to protect you and others from infection.
What about children?
Children aged 6 months and older can receive a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. All eligible children are recommended to get an updated COVID-19 vaccine, even children who have already had COVID-19.
Vaccination guidance varies depending on the age of your child. Speak with your doctor about the COVID-19 vaccination schedule for your child.