Updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be rolled out in August or September. Here's everything you need to know about the shots.

Why should I receive a vaccine?

Data has shown that COVID-19 vaccines can reduce the risk of severe disease, hospitalization and death as well as lower the risk of developing long COVID.

    • return2ozma@lemmy.worldOP
      6·
      3 months ago

      Are the vaccines free?

      Those who are covered by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance will receive coverage for the updated vaccines.

      In previous years, the CDC had a Bridge Access Program that provided free COVID-19 vaccines to adults without health insurance and adults whose insurance does not cover all COVID-19 vaccine costs. The program is ending in August 2024.

      “This year we won’t have the luxury of having the Bridge Program be a safety gap,” Chin-Hong said. “Those who have no insurance, which comprises millions of Americans, will have to be covered by different states’ safety net programs.”

      For children whose parents or guardians cannot afford vaccine coverage for them, there is the federally funded Vaccines for Children Program, which provides access to vaccines.