The best COVID-19 vaccine in 2025 depends on individual circumstances, but the leading options are Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax. Pfizer and Moderna are mRNA vaccines updated for prevailing variants and show similar high effectiveness in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Novavax is the only protein-based vaccine available and is preferred for certain groups like older adults and those with health risks, showing strong efficacy and safety as well. All three vaccines are considered safe with typical mild side effects, and the updated vaccines target current circulating strains like JN.1 and KP.2 variants.

Vaccine Types and Effectiveness

• Pfizer and Moderna: mRNA vaccines updated for 2024-2025 to protect against newer variants (KP.2 subtype); high effectiveness (~90-95%) in preventing severe outcomes; recommended for ages 6 months and up.
• Novavax: Protein subunit vaccine targeting the JN.1 variant; about 90% effective in initial trials and effective against moderate to severe disease; approved for people 65+ and those 12-64 with risk factors.

Safety and Side Effects

• Common side effects for all include injection site tenderness, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, and fever.
• Rare cases of myocarditis and pericarditis noted mainly with mRNA vaccines, especially in younger males but still less risky than COVID infection.
• Novavax has very rare severe allergic reactions and some myocarditis occurrences in trials but is generally well tolerated.

FDA Recommendations for 2025

• The 2025-2026 COVID vaccines recommended are monovalent vaccines based on the JN.1 lineage to best match circulating strains.
• Both mRNA vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna) and Novavax are approved with certain population-specific recommendations.

In summary, the best COVID vaccine is the one available and recommended based on age, health status, and personal risk factors, with Pfizer and Moderna favored broadly, and Novavax as a strong alternative for specific groups.