Types of COVID-19 Vaccines

There are 3 vaccines licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). All 3 vaccines protect against COVID-19. Vaccine recommendations are based on age, time since last dose, and in some cases, the first vaccine received. People who stay up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines are better protected against severe illness from COVID-19 than those who have not gotten it. COVID-19 vaccine recommendations will continue to be updated as needed. CDC recommends the 2023–2024 updated COVID-19 vaccines for everyone 6 months of age and older.

People ages 12 years and older have the option of receiving either the updated (2023–­­2024 Formula) mRNA (Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech) or updated (2023–­­2024 Formula) Novavax vaccine.

  • A COVID-19 vaccine that uses mRNA. 
  • Moderna is safe for ages: 6 months and older (specific vaccine recommendations are based on age, time since last dose, and in some cases, the first vaccine received). 
  • Moderna is safe for people aged 65 years and older, pregnant women, and people with a weakened immune system. 

  • A COVID-19 vaccine that uses mRNA. 
  • Pfizer-BioNTech is safe for ages: 6 months and older (specific vaccine recommendations are based on age, time since last dose, and in some cases, the first vaccine received). 
  • Pfizer-BioNTech is safe for pregnant women, people aged 65 years and older, and people with a weakened immune system. 

  • A COVID-19 vaccine that uses a protein subunit. 
  • Novavax is a 2-dose primary series. 
  • Novavax is available under emergency use authorization (EUA) to prevent COVID-19 in individuals 12 years of age and older. 
  • Novavax is safe for pregnant women, people aged 65 years and older, and people with a weakened immune system.  

Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines

Possible Side Effects 

  • Side effects after COVID-19 vaccination tend to be mild, temporary, and like those experienced after routine vaccinations. They can vary from person to person and across different age groups.  
  • Some people experience a little discomfort and can continue to go about their day. Others have side effects that affect their ability to do daily activities. 
  • Side effects generally go away in a few days. 
  • Even if you don’t experience any side effects, your body is building protection against the virus that causes COVID-19. 
  • Adverse events (serious health problems or allergic reactions) are rare but can cause long-term health problems. They usually happen within six weeks of getting a vaccine. 

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Last Reviewed: October 18, 2023