COVID Update

Here’s Where You Can Get the Updated COVID Vaccine

The newly approved shots are an important preventative measure in the middle of flu season.

By Uvie Bikomo October 4, 2023

An updated COVID vaccine means it's time for your next shot!

While it's tempting to believe we have moved past the pandemic, the reality is COVID continues to evolve and circulate. In mid-September, the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control approved updated mRNA COVID vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer. These revised vaccines now target the omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, which was dominant earlier this year. Individuals ages 5 and older are eligible for a single dose, while children ages 6 months to 4 years may be able to receive one or two doses, depending on their vaccination history. Here’s where you can find the new vaccines in Houston.

CVS

Good news—it’s quite easy to get an appointment for the updated vaccine at most local CVS locations. Same-day appointments are available at various Houston locations.

H-E-B

While both Moderna and Pfizer are available here, some stores may only have one in stock. Call different locations to find your preferred vaccine.

Kroger

Similar to H-E-B, only select Kroger stores have both vaccine brands in stock. It should still be relatively straightforward to locate a branch with the specific vaccine you want; the online scheduler may indicate which vaccine the branch has on hand, and you can also call the store location for the most up-to-date information.

Randalls

Similar to other grocery store pharmacies, Randalls locations have either both or one brand of the new COVID vaccine. You can book your appointment online, but the online system doesn’t indicate the kind of vaccine available, so you’ll want to call the individual stores to see what they have.

Walgreens

This well-known pharmacy chain began offering the updated vaccine on September 12, with same-day appointments still available at various stores around Houston. Walgreens also participates in the CDC's Bridge Access Program to provide free vaccinations to uninsured and underinsured adults.

Walmart 

Most pharmacies at Walmart now carry the updated vaccine, but in limited amounts. Call ahead and check if your local branch has any in stock before making your appointment.

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