Updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting JN.1-lineage omicron variants of the coronavirus are now available in the U.S. for the fall and winter seasons. Here we answer common questions about the latest vaccines.
Q&A on the 2024-2025 COVID-19 Vaccines
Background Science
Q&A on Reducing COVID-19 Risk for Elderly, Immunocompromised
While the risks associated with COVID-19 generally have decreased over time due to prior exposure to the vaccines and the virus, some people remain at elevated risk, such as the elderly and immunocompromised. The updated COVID-19 vaccines and, in some cases, a new monoclonal antibody can provide increased protection for this group.
Q&A on the Updated COVID-19 Vaccines
Updated COVID-19 vaccines are being rolled out in the U.S., aimed at targeting the latest, prevalent variants of the disease. Here we answer common questions about the latest vaccines.
Q&A on Mpox
Last summer saw the largest outbreak ever of mpox, the disease formerly known as monkeypox. Here, we provide an update on the disease, and explain what makes the outbreak unusual and how people can protect themselves.
What VAERS Can and Can’t Do, and How Anti-Vaccination Groups Habitually Misuse Its Data
For decades, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, or VAERS, has been exploited by people opposed to vaccination. Here, we’ll explain how VAERS works and run through five misconceptions that anti-vaccination activists wield to mislead people about vaccines.
Q&A on RSV Maternal Vaccine and Antibody Candidates to Protect Infants
Nearly all children get sick from respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, by the age of 2, and last year, there was a notable surge in RSV-associated hospitalizations. But the Food and Drug Administration is now considering approval of a vaccine and a monoclonal antibody aimed at protecting infants from this common virus.
Q&A on RSV Vaccine Candidates for Older Adults
This year, the Food and Drug Administration will consider several applications for vaccines and a monoclonal antibody to prevent respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, illness. We’ll go through some common questions about RSV and the potential vaccines for older adults in this story.
Q&A on Omicron-Updated COVID-19 Boosters
Retooled COVID-19 booster vaccines that target omicron subvariants of the coronavirus are now available in the U.S. Here, we answer questions about the new shots.
A Guide to Novavax’s COVID-19 Vaccine
After a long delay marred by manufacturing troubles, a COVID-19 vaccine from Novavax became the fourth such vaccine authorized in the U.S. We review how it works and how it’s different from its competitors.
Q&A on Financial Disclosures by Government Scientists
In this story, we’ll explain what we know about the financial and conflict-of-interest disclosure requirements for Dr. Anthony Fauci, other National Institutes of Health higher-ups and members of two U.S. vaccine advisory committees.