The FDA has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season.

• These vaccines are specifically formulated to target currently circulating variants, which have led to a recent surge in COVID-19 infections nationwide.

Vaccine recommendations: Residents of long term care (LTC) facilities are strongly encouraged to receive a COVID-19 vaccine this fall.

• The FDA states that individuals 12 years and older are eligible to receive a single dose of the updated Comirnaty (Pfizer) or Spikevax (Moderna) vaccines. If previously vaccinated, the dose should be administered at least two months after the last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.
• The new COVID-19 vaccine is currently available for distribution through retail pharmacies, long term care pharmacies, and other suppliers. LTC providers should contact their LTC pharmacies to order the vaccine and schedule clinics.

It’s important to note that although the vaccine may not prevent infection entirely, it significantly reduces the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19, particularly among older adults and those with chronic conditions.

• LTC residents are especially vulnerable to respiratory viruses due to their age and underlying health conditions. Prioritizing LTC residents for fall respiratory vaccines—including flu, RSV, and COVID-19—will help protect them from severe illness or hospitalization due to these viruses.

For additional support and information, providers can access #GetVaccinated resources, designed to help ensure smooth vaccine distribution and communication efforts.

Visit GetVaccinated.us for resources to help prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season.

Additional Resources:

• Back-to-School for Long Term Care Providers: Prepare Now for Respiratory Virus Season 
• HHS Launches National Campaign to Promote Vaccination for Respiratory Viruses 
• Upcoming CDC Webinar on Respiratory Virus Season Updates for LTC Providers