Vaccine Information
Flu, RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines
Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from severe illness. They help prevent hospital stays and can save lives.
Some people are at higher risk, including:
- Children under 5
- Adults 65 and older
- Pregnant people
- People with certain health conditions, like asthma or diabetes
Updated COVID-19 Vaccine
Latest updates
- Updated vaccine for 2025-26 recently approved by the FDA, but not everywhere yet
- The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has not shared this season’s recommendations
- By law, pharmacies in North Carolina must follow ACIP guidance
- Until then, pharmacies can only give the COVID vaccine to adults 18 and older who have a prescription from a health care provider
NCDHHS is closely monitoring for changes in federal recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines. We're also exploring options to improve vaccine availability and access across the state.
What you can do now
- Some clinics may already have the new vaccine — call your provider or clinic to check
- Experts still recommend COVID vaccines for young children and pregnant people — talk with your health care provider
Flu and RSV Vaccines
- Flu vaccine: Recommended for everyone 6 months and older
- RSV vaccine: Recommended for infants, pregnant people and older adults
These vaccines are available at pharmacies, health care provider offices, community health centers and local health departments.
Need help paying for vaccines?
If you’re uninsured or underinsured, you can get COVID-19 vaccines at no cost. There are many ways to find a place to get free vaccines near you:
- For children 18 or younger: Vaccines for Children
- Contact your local health department
- Find a federally qualified health center
- Reach out to a rural health center