New COVID Vaccines: FAQ

Have questions? We have answers: 

How can I get an appointment? 

Vaccines will be available in pharmacies, doctors offices–the usual spots. Search Vaccines.gov to find available locations nearby. You can also make appointments through many pharmacy websites (for example, CVS, Walgreens, RiteAid, among others). Note: appointments will likely open up later this week as vaccine supply gets to stores and offices. 
‍

Can I get my flu shot at the same time? 

Yes! It’s an efficient and safe way to knock two things off that to-do list. One study suggests that if you get both at the same time, you may be slightly more likely to have the classic post-vaccine symptoms like fatigue, muscle ache and headache. If you do decide to get them at different times, there’s no suggested waiting period between the shots. 
‍

Can I get an RSV vaccine at the same time (if I’m eligible for that)? 

Because the RSV vaccine is being given for the first time this year, there’s been less research done on giving it at the same time as other vaccines. So for now, experts say it’s best to schedule it either two weeks before or after your COVID and flu shots.
‍

When should I get the new COVID vaccine? 

Soon! But when exactly will depend on your underlying risk factors and risk tolerance. 

If you’re at a higher risk of severe disease if you do get infected with COVID (older than 65 years old, immunocompromised, etc), don’t wait to get this vaccine. For other folks, getting this vaccine within the next few weeks should help protect you later in the season, when it’s likely that COVID will rise again. Remember, it generally takes about 2 weeks to get maximum immunity from vaccination. 

It’s recommended that you wait at least 2 months after getting a previous COVID vaccine and 3 months after a COVID infection to get this vaccine, in order to maximize the impact it will have on your immunity. As always, talk to your medical provider for advice on your own situation.
‍

Do I have to pay for it? 

COVID vaccines are covered under most private insurance plans and through Medicaid and Medicare. If you do not have health insurance, check out the CDC’s Bridge Access Program, which provides COVID vaccines to adults without health insurance or whose insurance does not cover COVID vaccine costs. 
‍

I’m sick of getting these shots - do we really need these again? 

Alas, as COVID mutates, in order to keep our protection against the virus high, we need to keep getting updated COVID vaccines. Moving forward, expect to get a COVID shot once per year, similar to the flu shot. These vaccines not only help protect against severe disease and hospitalization, but also reduce the risk of Long COVID and can help make your illness milder and shorter if you do get sick.
‍