Talking Points and FAQs: COVID-19 Added to Routine Vaccination Schedule (English, Spanish)

Talking points and FAQs explains updates to the 2023 childhood and adult immunization schedules, including adding additional information for COVID-19 vaccines. This change does not affect vaccine mandates for schools, which are determined by states and local jurisdictions. Instead, adding COVID-19 vaccines to the recommended immunization list will increase access to vaccines after federal COVID-19 funds run out. Children who might not otherwise get vaccines due to inability to pay will be able to receive ACIP- recommended vaccines for free through the Vaccines for Children Program. In January 2023 onward, adults covered under Medicare will be able to receive all ACIP-recommended vaccines for free as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act. Note: the talking points reflect outdated recommendations for vaccinations for children; however, all other information is accurate as of July 2023.