"Fall COVID Booster Shots: What You Need to Know"

The first new COVID-19 vaccines updated for the fall season are expected to be available by the end of September, pending approval from the FDA and CDC. The revised shots will target the XBB variants, which are now the most common strains in circulation. Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax are expected to offer the updated shots, and virtually all children and adults will be eligible. The new vaccines will mark the end of government-bought supplies, simplify eligibility, and include a significant change to the vaccine recipe. The FDA is expected to grant approval to all three vaccines by the end of August, with the CDC issuing updated recommendations. However, widespread availability may not occur until October.