Rollout of Updated COVID Vaccine Raises Questions on Eligibility and Insurance Coverage

American health officials recommend that most people, including adults and children as young as six months old, should receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine this year. The shots have been approved for individuals starting at age five, with younger children potentially needing additional shots based on their COVID-19 history. While some doctors believe the shots should be given yearly to high-risk groups, not all doctors agree that everyone needs them annually. The updated shots target the Omicron sub-variant XBB.1.5 and have shown effectiveness against the BA.2.86 sub-variant. The World Health Organization warns that the virus remains a global health threat, and officials hope enough people will get vaccinated to prevent another surge in cases.