FDA approves updated COVID-19 vaccine. Here's what we know and where to get yours

The CDC announced an updated COVID-19 vaccine will become available in most places this week.

With hospitalizations slowly on the rise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said this vaccine should provide protection against severe illness as the fall and winter virus season approaches.

Here's what we know about the updated vaccine.

Why is there a new COVID-19 vaccine?

This new vaccine was designed to protect against the COVID-19 variants that are currently making people sick, including XBB.1.5, EG.5 and BA.2.86.

The FDA said updated COVID-19 vaccines may be necessary annually, similar to the annual flu shots.

More: Free COVID-19 tests still are available from some providers: Here's how to get them

Should I get a new COVID-19 vaccine?

The CDC is recommending the vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older.

Getting the vaccine doesn't necessarily prevent you from getting a COVID-19 infection, but rather helps protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death. It also reduces the chance of getting long COVID.

More: COVID-19 hospitalizations are once again rising. What does it mean for Oklahomans?

Where to get updated COVID-19 vaccine

The CDC said by the end of this week the new vaccine should be available in most places where you would normally receive a vaccine, like pharmacies, doctor's offices and health departments.

The vaccine is covered by insurance, and uninsured children and uninsured adults can get the vaccine through programs like the Vaccine for Children Program and Bridge Access Program.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: See CDC COVID vaccine recommendations, how to get the new vaccine