COVID-19 Vaccines

Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine

Last synced 8/10/2026Status: primary verified

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is an illness caused by a virus. This virus is a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become very sick. You can protect yourself by getting a COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccines might help keep you from getting sick from COVID-19. And if you do get sick, the vaccines can reduce your risk for: Needing to go to urgent care or the emergency room Getting severe illness Being hospitalized Dying Getting long COVID It's important to stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccines. Contact your health care provider if you don't know when you need another vaccine or if you have other questions about the vaccines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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This information is for general education and is not medical advice. Always talk to a licensed U.S. clinician about your situation, medications, or treatment decisions.