In response to hundreds of reader inquiries, The New York Times health team has compiled clear, evidence-based answers to the most common questions about vaccines in 2025—covering efficacy, safety, cost, and access across the U.S. . As new variants emerge and public trust remains fragile, accurate information has never been more critical.
What Vaccines Are Recommended Right Now?
The CDC’s 2025 immunization schedule includes updated boosters for respiratory viruses and routine shots for all age groups. Here’s what’s advised:
💉 2025 CDC-Recommended Vaccines by Group
- All adults: Annual flu shot, updated COVID-19 booster (KP.3 variant), Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis).
- Adults 60+: RSV vaccine, shingles (Shingrix), pneumococcal (Prevnar 20).
- Children: MMR, DTaP, polio, hepatitis B, HPV (starting at age 9), and annual flu.
- Pregnant people: Flu, Tdap, and RSV vaccines during each pregnancy.
Are Vaccines Still Effective Against New Variants?
Yes—though effectiveness varies. The 2025 KP.3-targeted COVID booster reduces hospitalization risk by 72% in adults over 65, according to CDC data . Flu vaccine effectiveness is projected at 50–60% this season, depending on strain match.
Vaccine Efficacy Snapshot: Fall 2025
| Vaccine | Target Disease | Effectiveness (2025) | Duration of Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Updated mRNA COVID-19 | KP.3 Omicron subvariant | 70–75% against severe disease | 4–6 months |
| Flu (quadrivalent) | Influenza A/B strains | 50–60% | 6–8 months |
| RSV (Arexvy/Abrysvo) | Respiratory syncytial virus | 85% in adults 60+ | At least 18 months |
| Shingrix | Shingles | 97% | 10+ years |
What About Vaccine Safety?
“The most common side effects are mild: sore arm, fatigue, low-grade fever,” says Dr. Rochelle Walensky, former CDC director and current Harvard professor. Serious reactions like anaphylaxis occur in fewer than 1 in 1 million doses .
Myth vs. Fact: No credible evidence links vaccines to autism, infertility, or long-term autoimmune disease. These claims have been repeatedly debunked by the WHO, CDC, and NIH.
How Much Do Vaccines Cost in 2025?
Thanks to the Affordable Care Act and the 2023 Vaccines for All initiative, most recommended vaccines are **free** for insured Americans. Uninsured adults can access them through:
- Federal Health Centers (HRSA-funded clinics)
- State public health departments (sliding-scale fees)
- Pharmacy programs (e.g., CVS, Walgreens offer no-cost flu/COVID shots)
Medicare Part B covers flu, pneumococcal, hepatitis B (for high-risk patients), and RSV. Part D covers shingles and Tdap.
Where Can I Get Vaccinated?
📍 Quick Access Guide
- Use Vaccines.gov to find nearby providers.
- Local pharmacies: Walk-ins accepted for flu/COVID/RSV.
- School-based clinics: Available for children in most districts.
- Mobile units: Deployed in rural and underserved urban areas.
Why Trust Still Matters
A 2025 KFF survey found that 28% of unvaccinated adults cite “distrust in government” as their main reason for skipping shots—not safety concerns. Experts urge transparent communication and community-led outreach to rebuild confidence.
For a deeper dive into how vaccines work, see our explainer on how your immune system responds to immunization.
