Updated COVID-19 vaccine targeting JN.1 variant now offered at pharmacies
The latest monovalent COVID-19 shot, designed for the JN.1 variant, is available without cost at most pharmacies, with recommendations focusing on older adults, people with certain health conditions, pregnant individuals and young children.
The new COVID-19 vaccine, updated to target the circulating JN.1 variant, has begun distribution through major pharmacy chains such as CVS and Walgreens across the United States. While most insurance plans cover the shot at no charge, a CVS spokesperson noted that a prescription is required for recipients in Louisiana, whereas Walgreens does not require prescriptions in any state.
Health officials say the vaccine is primarily aimed at groups at higher risk of severe disease. > "The recommendations right now are really targeting the most vulnerable groups of people," said Dr. Michael Angarone, an infectious-disease specialist at Northwestern Medicine. The guidance, drawn from recommendations issued by several medical societies, aligns with prior CDC advice. > "Their recommendations essentially mirror what have previously been the guidance from CDC," added Dr. Daniel Kuritzkes, senior infectious-disease physician at Mass General Brigham.
The advisory suggests that adults 65 and older, pregnant people, and anyone under 65 with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, obesity, diabetes or immunocompromise receive the updated shot. Children aged 6 months to 23 months are also advised to be vaccinated, typically through a pediatrician. For healthy adults aged 19 to 64, vaccination is presented as a personal choice, given existing immunity levels.
Experts recommend timing the dose in mid-September through early October, coinciding with the expected rise in respiratory infections and before the holiday season. > "That's when we start to see the increase in cases of COVID," Angarone said. The vaccine can be administered alongside the seasonal flu shot to reduce the number of visits.
The formulation is monovalent, differing from earlier bivalent versions, but manufacturers expect side effects to be similar or milder. Common reactions include brief arm soreness, fever, chills and muscle aches, which are typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. > "It is short-lived, doesn’t lead to any long-term health consequences," Kuritzkes noted.