Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2022

September 6, 2022

This week, we begin a new phase in our COVIDâ19 response. We are launching a new vaccineâour first in almost 2 yearsâwith a new approach. For most Americans, that means one COVIDâ19 shot, once a year, each fall.

Starting this week, at tens of thousands of convenient pharmacies, doctor's offices, and community health centers, and other places, Americans age 12 and older can go get this new fall COVIDâ19 vaccine. The new vaccines provide the strongest protection from the new Omicron strain of the COVID virus, which did not exist when the original vaccine was developed. As the virus continues to change, we will now be able to update our vaccines annually to target the dominant variant. Just like your annual flu shot, you should get it sometime between Labor Day and Halloween. It's safe, it's easy to get, and it's free. Go to vaccines.gov to find a location near your home or work.

It's simple, and it's easy to understand: If you are vaccinated and 12 and older, get the new COVIDâ19 shot this fall. This once-a-year shot can reduce your risk of getting COVIDâ19, reduce your chance of spreading it to others, and dramatically reduce your risk of severe COVIDâ 19.

Winter is not that far away. The past 2 years, we have seen COVIDâ19 cases and deaths soar. It does not have to be that way this year. If you are 12 and older, go get your new COVIDâ 19 shot this fall.

Categories: Statements by the President : Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech updated COVIDâ19 vaccines.

Subjects: Diseases : Coronavirus, domestic prevention efforts.

DCPD Number: DCPD202200762.

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