While the new mRNA vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech have dominated the COVID-19 vaccine story, there is another type of shot that uses a more traditional vaccine-making technology, used by Novavax.

Pfizer's and Moderna's formulas have been the go-to on pharmacy shelves, but Novavax remains an important option.

For those who are uninsured or under-insured, CDPH will have vaccine at its three CDPH Immunization Clinics. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is highly encouraged. Create an account and register for an appointment at https://getvaxchi.chicago.gov or by calling the clinic. Call ahead to make sure COVID-19 vaccine doses have arrived.

On Aug. 22, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the approval of a new Novavax COVID vaccine, as well as updated versions of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. According to NPR, this latest vaccine is already being distributed and administered across the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the Food and Drug Administration has ended a program that provided free COVID-19 vaccines in August of 2024. Because of that, some are warned to double-check your insurance before getting the shot.