when will covid booster be available

The updated COVID-19 booster vaccines for the 2025-2026 season are expected to be available starting from early fall 2025, around the same time as the annual flu shot. Distribution of the updated vaccines by manufacturers like Pfizer and Moderna is set to begin almost immediately after FDA approval, with vaccines becoming accessible at pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics within a few days to weeks. The COVID-19 vaccination program for autumn 2025 is planned to run from October 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, with most vaccinations expected to be completed by mid-December 2025. However, eligibility for the COVID-19 booster this year is restricted mainly to people aged 65 and older, adults aged 75 and over in the UK, residents in care homes for older adults, and individuals aged 6 months and over with weakened immune systems or certain medical conditions that increase risk. Healthy adults under 65 and healthy children may not be eligible under current FDA guidelines.