5 Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines and Treatments
Content on this page is being updated to reflect the FDA’s August 27 approval of the 2026–2027 COVID-19 vaccine formula. Please check back soon.
Vaccines have helped protect millions of people from severe illness and death from COVID-19, but the virus and new variants remain a threat and still pose risks. Getting the latest vaccine is still the best way to avoid the worst outcomes of COVID-19.
Last Updated08/14/2026
5 Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines and Treatments
*NOTE: COVID-19 and RSV vaccine recommendations have recently been updated for some populations. This resource will be updated to reflect the CDC’s latest guidance. Because CDC recommendations may impact insurance coverage, you should check with your insurance provider to make sure you’re covered.
Treatments | Immunocompromised
Know Your Risk: Certain Health Conditions Raise Your Risk of Serious Illness from COVID-19 and Flu
Both COVID-19 and influenza (flu) can cause serious complications — especially for people who have an existing underlying or chronic illness. But antiviral treatments can reduce your chances of getting very sick and help you recover faster.
Certain health conditions raise your risk of serious illness from COVID-19 and flu.
Both COVID-19 and influenza (flu) can cause serious complications — especially for people who have an existing underlying or chronic illness. But antiviral treatments can reduce your chances of getting very sick and help you recover faster.
RISK INCREASES WITH AGE — FOR BOTH VIRUSES LOWER RISK: Adults under 50 with no other health conditions HIGHER RISK: Adults 50–64, especially those with underlying or chronic illnesses HIGHEST RISK: Adults 65 and older, with or without underlying or chronic illnesses
Illnesses that put you at higher risk:
COVID
FLU (INFLUENZA)
Asthma • COPD, bronchiectasis, ILD, pulmonary hypertension • Cystic fibrosis • Tuberculosis • Current or former smoking Metabolic & Digestive • Diabetes (type 1 and 2) • Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) • Chronic kidney disease / dialysis Heart & Circulation • Heart disease • Cerebrovascular / stroke-related disease Neurological • Dementia • Parkinson’s disease • Depression & mood disorders • Schizophrenia spectrum disorders Immune System & Cancer • HIV • Primary immunodeficiencies • Organ or stem cell transplant • Long-term steroid / immunosuppressant use • Cancer (including blood cancers) Other • Pregnancy & recent pregnancy • Disabilities, including Down syndrome • Physical inactivity
Asthma • COPD and cystic fibrosis Metabolic & Digestive • Diabetes mellitus • Obesity (BMI ≥ 40) • Kidney disorders • Liver disorders • Metabolic disorders (incl. mitochondrial disorders) Heart & Circulation • Congenital heart disease, heart failure, coronary artery disease • History of stroke Neurological & Blood • Neurologic & neurodevelopment conditions • Blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell disease) Immune System & Cancer • HIV / AIDS • Cancer (e.g., leukemia) • Chemotherapy, radiation, or immunosuppressant use Other • Pregnancy & recent pregnancy • Disabilities, including Down syndrome • Physical inactivity
Not a complete list of medical conditions. Some treatments may have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking, talk with your healthcare provider to help you make the best choice for your health.
ANTIVIRAL TREATMENTS CAN HELP Getting tested and starting an antiviral treatment early can help prevent what may seem like a mild illness from becoming more serious.
STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT SERIOUS ILLNESS 1. Stay up to date on COVID-19 and flu vaccines 2. Talk to your doctor about your personal risk 3. Ask about antiviral options early if you get sick
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