2026-27 COVID vaccine: who is eligible and whether it is covered

With flu-shot season underway, many people are also asking about this year's COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has approved four updated vaccines for 2026-27: Moderna's Spikevax and mNEXSPIKE, Pfizer-BioNTech's Comirnaty, and Novavax-Sanofi's Nuvaxovid. They are designed to target the XFG variant from the JN.1 lineage, the strain driving most infections.

According to AARP, the approvals cover adults 65 and older, plus people ages 5 to 64 who have underlying health conditions that raise their risk of severe illness. Moderna's Spikevax is approved for people as young as 6 months who have qualifying conditions. Official recommendations from the CDC's vaccine advisory committee are currently paused, though groups such as the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend the updated shot for all adults.

Cost is the other common question. Medicare Part B covers the full cost of the vaccine. AARP reports that most private insurers are still covering it, but it suggests calling your insurer to confirm and getting the shot from an in-network pharmacy or clinic to avoid a surprise bill.

Timing is flexible. Manufacturers are already shipping to pharmacies and clinics. If cases are rising where you live, sooner can make sense; otherwise late September through October lines up with flu shots, and many pharmacies will give both at one visit.

Your own situation matters here, so ask your doctor or pharmacist which vaccine fits you. A practical step for today is to check your pharmacy's app for appointments, and have your insurance card handy when you book.