Following the CDC’s approval of an updated COVID-19 vaccine, Governor Kathy Hochul urged New Yorkers to get the shot once it is available later this week.
The 2023-24 vaccine, previously authorized by the federal Food and Drug Administration, is expected to be available at pharmacies and physicians’ offices, as well as other health care providers, throughout New York State in the coming days.
“The vaccine has always been the best way to protect yourself and your community against COVID-19, and this updated vaccine addresses newer strains of the virus that are currently circulating,” Governor Hochul said. “As we enter the Fall season, when respiratory viruses circulate, it is vital that New Yorkers consider getting this updated vaccine to protect themselves from this still dangerous virus.”
The updated COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months or older who has not received a COVID-19 vaccine in the past two months to protect against potentially serious illness from COVID-19. Recommended dosages vary dependent on age and COVID-19 vaccine history:
- Children 6 months through 4 years, who are getting the vaccine for the first time, should get two doses of a Moderna vaccine or three doses of a Pfizer vaccine.
- Children 6 months through 4 years who have been previously vaccinated should get just one dose of either updated vaccine.
- Those 5 through 11 are eligible to receive a single dose of the updated vaccine at least 2 months after their last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine regardless of previous vaccination.
- Those 12 and older who have been previously vaccinated are recommended to get a single dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna updated vaccine.
- Those 12 and older who have not been previously vaccinated are recommended to get a two-shot series.
- Those who have been infected with COVID-19 within the last two months should speak with a health care provider.
