"Essential Facts on the Latest Covid Booster Shots"

The FDA has approved two new monovalent Covid-19 booster shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, designed to protect against the XBB.1.5 variant and other concerning variants. The CDC is expected to provide guidance on eligibility soon, and the vaccines could be available within days. The new shots do not include protection against the original virus, which may help broaden protection against new variants. The cost of the shots will be negotiated by insurance companies and government payers, but they are expected to remain free for most people with insurance. The CDC is likely to authorize the new boosters for everyone 6 months and older, with a focus on high-risk individuals first. It is safe to get the Covid booster and flu shot at the same time.