​New COVID Vaccine Available In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — Public health officials encouraged San Diego County residents to stay up to date on vaccinations, including the new COVID-19 vaccine.

The new vaccine was designed to respond to current strains of the virus. The shot replaces the former bivalent boosters, which have been deauthorized and are no longer in use.

"This new vaccine is a welcome resource to our ongoing COVID-19 prevention efforts, especially as we enter the fall and winter seasons when cases traditionally increase," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "As the virus remains prevalent in our community, I encourage everyone eligible to get the updated vaccine."

The California Department of Public Health expects supplies of the vaccine to increase statewide in the coming weeks. COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines can all be administered in the same visit.

People can schedule a vaccine appointment by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov or contacting their local pharmacy or health care provider. The vaccines will continue to be free for most people through their health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and regular health care providers.

The county's public health centers will provide the vaccine to people without insurance and participate in outreach to vaccinate in underserved communities, officials said.

All people 5 years and older should receive one dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccine, as long as it's been 2 months or more since their most recent dose, according to the county.

Infants and younger children, 6 months through 4 years old, who have previously been vaccinated against COVID-19 are eligible to receive one or two doses of the updated vaccine. The timing and number of doses depends on the previous COVID-19 vaccine received.