COVID-19 Vaccines: Keep Yourself and Your Family Protected

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Q1: Do I still need to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Even for people who feel healthy, vaccinations are important to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting sick. The COVID-19 virus hasn’t gone away, and vaccines reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and long COVID, while also lowering the chance of spreading the virus to others. If you live or interact with older adults regularly, it is especially important for you to get vaccinated.

Q2: Did the recommendations about COVID-19 vaccines change?

Federal recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines changed earlier this year. The new guidance say that the COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for adults over age 65 and for people who have at least one underlying medical condition. Each state is handling it differently, but the reality is – in most states – you can still easily get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Q3: If I’m younger than 65, can I still get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes! Even with the new federal recommendations, most adults under age 65 are eligible. The recommendation defines “underlying medical condition” broadly, including both serious diseases and common health factors, such as being overweight, not being physically active, and being a current or former smoker. Because of these changes, many pharmacies now ask directly if you have an “underlying medical conditions” when you make an appointment or complete a vaccine form. You may feel unsure about whether to answer yes or no but remember the broad definition means most people are eligible for a vaccine. However, in Georgia, Louisiana, Utah, and West Virginia, you will need to get a prescription from your health care provider before getting a vaccine.

Q4: Do I need to pay for a COVID-19 vaccine?

If you have health insurance coverage, the COVID-19 vaccine is covered, and you will not need to pay. However, the federal program that previously provided free COVID-19 vaccines ended in August 2024. Now, people without health insurance coverage may need to pay for the vaccine out of pocket. This will depend on where you live – some places offer low-cost or free vaccines. The price of a COVID-19 vaccine is estimated between $150 and $250, with possible additional fees.

Questions? Please call our Helpline for assistance.

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If you have questions about public benefits, there are 3 ways you can reach us today:

Call our Helpline at: (English) 1-800-336-2722, (Korean) 1-800-582-4259,

(Chinese Mandarin) 1-800-683-7427, (Cantonese) 1-800-582-4218,

(Vietnamese) 1-800-582-4336

Email: askNAPCA@napca.org

Mail: NAPCA Helpline, 1511 3rd Avenue, Suite 914, Seattle, WA 98101

The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) is dedicated to improving the quality of life for AANHPI older adults by advocating for their unique needs and ensuring access to culturally competent services.