This updated COVID-19 vaccine was designed specifically to target the omicron subvariants – the dominant virus currently circulating in the U.S. This is a big deal, and very different from the boosters previously offered – it generates a stronger immune response against current and future variants. This will protect individuals and communities from the dominant variant currently circulating in the U.S. as we head into the fall and winter months.

It's being called a "bivalent booster" because it's a mix of two versions of the vaccine — both boosting protection against original coronavirus strain as well as (newly) protecting against the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron subvariants and potentially broadening the protection against future variants. A previous booster would have only protected against the original coronavirus strain.

Yes. Individuals are up-to-date when they have received their updated bivalent dose, either through their primary vaccine series or an updated single booster dose.

Bivalent boosters are authorized for everyone ages 6 months and up at least two months after completion of their final primary series dose with Moderna or people ages 5 and up at least two months after completion of their final primary series with any of the authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccines or the most recent monovalent booster dose.

You are not required to wait, but CDC says you may consider waiting 3 months from your most recent infection. Do not wait longer than this.

You can receive your updated vaccine (bivalent booster) at least two months after your last COVID-19 vaccine.

The updated vaccine uses the same technology as the prior Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, which have been safely administered billions of times.

Human trials were completed for an updated bivalent booster (original plus Omicron BA.1/BA.2) earlier this summer. These trials showed improved antibody response and no safety concerns, with the same side effect profile as earlier vaccines.  That version of the Omicron bivalent vaccine was then better matched to the “spike” protein of BA.4/BA.5, similar to how flu vaccines are matched each year to the circulating flu strains.

Before you get the updated vaccine, you’ll need to complete your primary series. Schedule your second dose now – then you can receive your updated vaccine (bivalent booster) at least two months after that shot.

CDPH recommends bringing your CDC vaccination card to your appointment.

You will get a new one. CDC recommends completing a second card and stapling the two cards together and both cards should be presented when vaccination history is required for travel, employment, or other purposes.

Only for those age 5 and up. Mix-and-match is not recommended for children under 5.

Yes, if a patient is eligible, both flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered at the same visit, as recommended by CDC and ACIP. In addition to flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine can be given with other vaccines as well, talk to your healthcare provider to learn more.

COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone at no cost, including the updated vaccine (bivalent booster). Vaccines will continue to be given to all eligible people living in Chicago, regardless of insurance or immigration status.