The new COVID vaccine for the 2025-2026 season is available starting fall 2025. Pfizer and BioNTech's updated vaccine targeting the LP.8.1 sublineage has received FDA approval and has begun shipping to pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics in the U.S. This vaccine is authorized for adults 65 and older, and individuals aged 5-64 with certain high-risk medical conditions. Other vaccines, such as Novavax, are expected to be available in early fall 2025 as well. However, the FDA has limited eligibility for these new vaccines to high- risk groups, which means healthy adults under 65 and healthy children may face challenges in obtaining the vaccine. The CDC is expected to provide updated guidance soon on who should receive the vaccine in this season. The focus this year is on protecting those with higher risk of severe COVID outcomes through targeted vaccination efforts.