Is the newest COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) vaccine available?

COVID-19 Vaccine Availability Update - 2024-2025

Yes, the newest COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 season are currently available. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines for all persons aged ≥6 months 1, 2.

Current Available COVID-19 Vaccines (2024-2025)

• The 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines are updated monovalent formulations specifically targeting current circulating variants (Omicron JN.1 lineage strains, including JN.1 and KP.2) 1, 2
• Three vaccine options are currently available:
  • Moderna (monovalent, KP.2-strain) - FDA approved for ages ≥12 years and authorized under EUA for ages 6 months-11 years 1
  • Pfizer-BioNTech (monovalent, KP.2-strain) - FDA approved for ages ≥12 years and authorized under EUA for ages 6 months-11 years 1
  • Novavax (monovalent, JN.1-strain) - FDA authorized under EUA for ages ≥12 years 1

Vaccination Recommendations

• A single dose of 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone aged ≥6 months, regardless of previous vaccination history 1, 2
• For previously unvaccinated individuals:
  • Ages 6 months-4 years: 2-3 dose primary series (varies by manufacturer) 1
  • Ages ≥5 years: Single dose of any available 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine 1
• For previously vaccinated individuals:
  • A single dose of any available 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine is recommended, with a minimum interval of 8 weeks since the last COVID-19 vaccine dose 1, 2

Special Populations

• Immunocompromised individuals: May receive additional doses based on clinical judgment 1
  • After completing an initial series and receiving at least one 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine dose, an additional dose may be administered at least 2 months later 1
  • Further additional doses may be given at the discretion of healthcare providers 1
• Recent COVID-19 infection: Consider delaying vaccination by 3 months from symptom onset or positive test 1, 2
• Rheumatic and autoimmune disorders: Vaccination is recommended regardless of disease activity, though timing may be optimized relative to immunosuppressive therapy 1

Practical Considerations

• The choice of vaccine manufacturer does not need to match prior vaccinations 2
• Vaccine administration sites may vary in availability based on geographic location, with some disparities noted in rural areas and counties with higher minority populations 3
• All COVID-19 vaccines can be co-administered with other vaccines, including the seasonal influenza vaccine 1

Reporting Adverse Events

• Any adverse events following vaccination should be reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) 1
• For vaccines under EUA, providers are required to report certain adverse events 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Waiting for a specific manufacturer: The ACIP does not express preference for any particular COVID-19 vaccine product among those recommended 1
• Delaying vaccination unnecessarily: While those with recent COVID-19 infection may consider delaying vaccination by 3 months, unnecessary delays should be avoided, particularly for high-risk individuals 1, 2
• Assuming previous vaccination is sufficient: The virus continues to evolve, and updated vaccines are designed to target current circulating variants 1, 2

The 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines represent the most current formulations designed to provide protection against currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants. Vaccination remains a critical tool for reducing COVID-19-associated morbidity and mortality 1.