There’s been a lot of confusion and mixed messages coming from the federal government about the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Different agencies have made different recommendations about who can and who can’t get the vaccine, all of it at odds with the recommendations coming from health professional organizations.
With all the smoke and noise, it may seem difficult to get the updated vaccine in Madison. But, in fact, the COVID-19 vaccine has recently become widely available, with pharmacies and clinics offering appointments.
Here’s what to know about the vaccine, who can get it, and how.
Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Effective?
A study published Oct. 8 in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that last season’s 2024-25 mRNA COVID vaccines were effective even for those with previous vaccinations and infection. The study of 300,000 U.S. citizens who took the vaccine showed that it reduced people’s risk of emergency visits by 29%, their risk of hospitalizations by 39%, and their risk of death by 64%.
The vaccine’s effectiveness has waned since it was first introduced in 2019, when it had a 94% protection rate. However, that dip is expected as the population develops some prior immunity over time through previous vaccinations and infections, researchers said.
Who Can Get It?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has dropped its previous broad recommendation of the vaccine and recommends that a patient consult with a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist before getting the shot. In Wisconsin, the Department of Health Services said on Sept. 16 that everyone 6 months of age or older should get an updated COVID-19 vaccine, calling it “safe and effective.”
That local guidance means that people in Wisconsin can get the COVID-19 through their health clinic or through a local pharmacy.
Where Can I Get One?
Local pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS have had the COVID-19 vaccine in stock for several weeks. However, prior to the CDC announcement, it was only administering the shot to those of higher risk of serious infection.
That requirement has now been dropped, and anyone 6 months or older can schedule an appointment. A cursory look of Walgreens’ immunization website showed many appointment times available, including some on the same day. Pharmacies are also offering walk-in vaccinations.
UW Health officials said that it also has the vaccine in stock and is also setting appointments. The clinic at 3819 John Wall Dr. also offers drive-thru vaccinations.
Public Health of Madison Dane County says on its website that it currently does not have the COVID-19 vaccine in stock. PHMDC communications coordinator Morgan Finke said the organization hopes to have the vaccine available for children in the next couple of weeks, but does not know when it will be available for adults.
