The latest recommendations for the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine state that everyone aged 6 months and older is eligible to get the COVID vaccine. This eligibility is for both those with and without health conditions, and the vaccine cost is expected to be covered by insurance with no prescription required, subject to approval by the CDC director. It is advised that individuals or their caregivers discuss the risks and benefits with their pharmacist or health care provider. However, the U.S. FDA has limited authorization for the updated COVID vaccines primarily to people aged 65 and older, and younger individuals with specific high-risk health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, immunocompromised states, obesity, pregnancy, and several others that increase the risk of severe COVID-19 complications. In practice, this means:
- All people 6 months and older can receive the vaccine.
- Priority and official authorization focus on those 65+ or with underlying conditions.
- Younger, healthy individuals may still get the vaccine after consulting a healthcare provider.
- Uninsured people can get vaccinated in consultation with providers.
- The vaccine is widely available at pharmacies, health departments, and primary care providers.
Despite some restrictions, the general guidance encourages as many people as possible who want the vaccine to receive it, especially vulnerable groups like young children under 1 year and adults over 65.
