Confused about the 2025 COVID vaccine? This guide explains the new eligibility rules from the FDA and CDC, where to find the updated shots, and what you need to know about insurance coverage for the fall.

The ongoing story of the COVID-19 pandemic has entered a new chapter, and with it, the guidance on vaccination has evolved. As we navigate the second half of 2025, public health authorities have introduced a new framework for vaccination, moving away from a universal recommendation for all Americans.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued updated guidance, narrowing the focus of the new COVID-19 vaccines to target the most vulnerable populations.

This new approach aims to provide targeted protection against the dominant circulating strains, but it also raises new questions about who is eligible and how to get the shot.

This guide will break down the latest official recommendations, explain who qualifies for the updated 2025-2026 formula, and provide practical advice on how to access the vaccine this fall and winter.

The New Rules of Eligibility: Who is Recommended for the 2025 Shot?

The most significant change in the 2025 vaccine policy is the shift to a risk-based recommendation. Unlike previous years, where an annual shot was recommended for everyone aged six months and older, the new guidance is more selective.

According to the latest information from the FDA and CDC, the updated COVID-19 vaccine is primarily recommended for:

Adults aged 65 and older: This group continues to be at the highest risk for severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. The vaccine is a crucial tool to protect them.
Individuals aged 6 months to 64 with high-risk medical conditions: This group includes people with underlying health issues such as asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, chronic lung conditions, and a compromised immune system. The vaccine is recommended to significantly reduce their risk of serious outcomes.

This new framework is designed to align U.S. policy with other countries that have adopted a similar risk-based approach.

It is important to note that the new vaccines are specifically formulated to target the most prevalent strains, such as the LP.8.1 sublineage of the JN.1 variant.

A Note on Children and Healthy Adults: Under the new federal guidelines, the widespread recommendation for healthy children and adults under the age of 65 has been removed.

Health officials now advise that parents and healthy adults should consult with their primary care provider to determine if getting the vaccine is appropriate for their individual circumstances.

Where and How to Get the Vaccine in 2025

For those who are eligible under the new guidelines, getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine is a straightforward process. The primary points of access remain consistent with previous years, with a few important considerations.

1. Your Local Pharmacy: Major pharmacy chains like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and others are the most common and accessible locations for vaccination.

Many offer walk-in appointments, but it is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online or through their mobile app to ensure vaccine availability and minimize wait times.

2. Your Doctor’s Office: Your primary care physician or local clinic is an excellent resource. They can not only administer the shot but also provide personalized medical advice on whether you meet the high-risk criteria and if the vaccine is right for you. This is the recommended route for those with underlying health conditions.

3. Local Public Health Departments: Many state and county health departments continue to operate community vaccine clinics, especially in areas with limited access to private healthcare. Check your local health department’s website for information on clinic locations and hours.

To find a vaccine location near you, you can also use online locators provided by the CDC or the vaccine manufacturers themselves.¹³ Simply enter your ZIP code, and the tool will show you a list of nearby providers.

Cost and Insurance Coverage: What You Need to Know

In previous years, the cost of the COVID-19 vaccine was fully covered for all Americans under federal programs. The landscape has now changed, and coverage is more closely tied to your insurance plan and your eligibility status.

For the Insured: If you are an adult aged 65 or older, or you have a qualifying underlying health condition, your health insurance plan will likely cover the cost of the vaccine at no charge. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) generally mandates that insurers cover all vaccines recommended by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
For the Uninsured: Safety net programs are still in place to ensure that cost is not a barrier. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program provides free vaccines to uninsured or underinsured children. Many local health departments and community health centers also offer free vaccines to adults without insurance. It is advisable to call ahead to confirm eligibility.

If you do not fall into a high-risk category, the cost of the vaccine may not be fully covered by your insurance.

The out-of-pocket price for the shot could be significant, estimated to be around $140 or more per dose.

It is essential to contact your insurance provider directly before getting the shot to understand your specific coverage and any potential co-pays or deductibles.

The evolving nature of the pandemic means that public health guidance will continue to adapt. By understanding the new eligibility rules and knowing where to access the updated vaccine, Americans can make informed decisions to protect their health and the well-being of their communities as we move forward.