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Fall Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What new vaccines have been approved for this fall and winter?

  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends, vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV this fall.
  • The updated COVID-19 and flu shots are recommended for everyone over 6 months of age.
  • A single dose of RSV vaccine is recommended for adults aged 75 and older and for adults aged 60–74 years who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease. Adults who have previously received the RSV vaccine should not receive another dose. Those in the late stages of pregnancy are advised to get the RSV immunization, which is designed to protect newborns.

Where can I get the shots?

  • The new shots are available at pharmacies, hospitals, and community health clinics. The easiest way to find a location near you is through the federal vaccines.gov website or IDPH’s Vaccine Locator Dashboard.
  • The major pharmacy chains allow you to make an appointment online for COVID-19 and flu shots.
  • Contact your health care provider if you need the RSV vaccine.

Why should I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I have gotten COVID-19 before and didn’t get that sick?

  • The new COVID-19 shots are designed to target the strains of the virus currently in circulation. They are very effective in preventing severe outcomes, including hospitalization and deaths.
  • Just because you’ve been sick with COVID-19 before and it wasn’t that serious, it doesn’t mean your symptoms won’t be more severe the next time. The vaccines also provide you with protection against long COVID-19.
  • There is also evidence that getting the vaccine can help to prevent transmission of the virus – even if you get sick – by reducing the severity of symptoms like sneezing and coughing. This protects those around you.

Can I get the COVID-19 and flu shots at the same time?

Yes, there is no downside to getting both shots at the same time. It will also save you the trouble of having to make a second trip to the pharmacy or health care provider.

What if I don’t have health care coverage and can’t afford vaccinations?

  • If you don’t have health care coverage, either through a private plan, Medicare, or Medicaid, IDPH operates the Vaccines for Children Program, which provides vaccines at no cost for children 18 and under.
  • Adults without insurance have several options. They can check with their local health department or use the search capability to contact either a free and charitable clinic or a Community Health Center.

Should I get the new vaccines now or wait until later in the season?

  • If you have recently had COVID-19 or recently been vaccinated, you should consult your health care provider on the timing.
  • Everyone else should make plans to get vaccinated before the fall and winter respiratory virus season begins.
  • Since the effectiveness of vaccines has waned over time, some people may want to wait until later in the fall if they want to have complete protection during the winter holiday season. Those who are at risk of severe outcomes should discuss the timing of getting their shots with their health care provider.