COVID-19 Information for Patients
2025-2026 COVID-19 Vaccine Information
On August 27, 2025, the FDA approved the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine for use in individuals who are 65 years of age and older, or 6 months through 64 years of age with at least one underlying condition that puts them at high risk for severe outcomes from COVID-19. On September 17, The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced official immunization recommendations in accordance with West Coast Health Alliance partners Oregon, Washington and Hawaii. The guidance ensures continued patient access and health insurance coverage for vaccines necessary to all of those who desire protection from COVID-19, influenza, and RSV during the respiratory virus season.
The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID) virus has undergone many mutations since it was first identified in humans at the end of 2019.. The updated 2025-2026 COVID vaccines now include a monovalent (single) component that corresponds to the Omicron variant LP.8.1 strain of SARS-CoV-2. While LP.8.1 is no longer dominant and we see more variants beginning to circulate, including “Nimbus” (NB.1.8.1) and “Stratus” (XFG), recent literature suggests that the updated vaccine will also protect against these new variants. This updated vaccine will closely target the current variants and provide improved protection against serious consequences of COVID-19, including hospitalization and death.
Sutter patients 6 months of age or older can be scheduled for an appointments for the 2025-2026 Moderna (Spikevax®) COVID-19 vaccine starting Thursday September 25th.
Covid-19 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What updated COVID vaccines will you be offering?
A: We will only offer the Moderna (Spikevax®) COVID vaccine for the 2025-2026 year.
Q: When will I be able to schedule the updated COVID vaccine?
A: We anticipate opening for the updated COVID vaccine the last part of September. Once available, you can schedule by calling (844) 987-6115 (M-F 7a-6p PST) or through our website at https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-resources/flu-and-covid-19-resources for the latest updates.
Q: Can I get the updated COVID vaccine if I recently received last year’s version?
A: You should wait at least two months after getting the prior year formulation before getting the updated 2025-2026 COVID vaccine. The 2024-2025 vaccines have been demonstrated to result in serologic protection against new predominant strains and other variants that have become more common.
Q: Can I get the updated COVID vaccine if I recently was diagnosed with COVID?
A: If you recently had COVID-19, you still need to stay up to date with your vaccines, but you may consider delaying your vaccine dose by up to three months. Discuss with your provider about the right time for you.
Q: Is the updated COVID vaccine considered a booster?
A: The 2025-2026 COVID vaccine is different than the previous formulation and is considered an updated vaccine, not a booster. It is formulated to protect against the current circulating stains. This is similar to receiving an annual influenza vaccination.
Q: I do not have a chronic or immuno-compromising condition that puts me at risk for COVID-19. Can I still receive an updated COVID vaccine?
A: Yes. The California Department of Public Health, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians continue to recommend that all individuals ages six months and older should have access to and the choice to receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine regardless of underlying condition. Vaccination is especially important if you are age 65 years and older, have a condition that places you at increased risk of COVID-19 infection, and have never received a COVID-19 vaccine.
Q: How many shots of updated COVID vaccine will be needed?
A: For most individuals 2 years of age and older, only one updated vaccine dose is necessary regardless of past number of vaccine doses received. If you received a COVID vaccine in the past, the updated vaccine should be given at least 2 months after the previous dose was given. For children 6 months to 2 years old, two doses of Moderna vaccine spaced 4 weeks apart are needed if there is not a prior history of COVID vaccination, while only one Moderna vaccine dose is needed if children have received at least one prior COVID vaccine. For those who have history of moderate to severe immunocompromise, additional doses may be needed.
Q: Can the updated COVID vaccine be given at the same time as the flu vaccine?
A: Yes. The flu and COVID vaccines can be given at the same time. There is not a combined COVID and flu vaccine at this time so two shots are still required.
Q: Can I get both the COVID and flu vaccines in the same arm?
A: Most individuals can get both vaccines in the same arm. However, if you receive an enhanced adjuvanted or high-dose flu vaccine, COVID and flu vaccines may be given in different arms to reduce potential pain or discomfort at the injection site.
Q: What are the side effects from the updated COVID vaccine?
A: Side effects are expected to be similar to previous COVID vaccines and may include minor pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, tiredness or headache.
Q: Will I need to pay for the vaccine?
A: Recent legislation passed in California ensures that individuals with state-regulated health plans or Medi-Cal cover the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. Medicare also covers the COVID-19 vaccine under Part B. Check with your health insurance provider to confirm exact details of coverage.
Q: Do I need to contact my doctor to get a prescription?
A: No, the 2025-2026 COVID vaccine does not require an individual prescription.