Comparing the COVID-19 Vaccines: How Are They Different?
[Originally published: Feb. 24, 2021. Updated: May 20, 2025.]
Note: The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine expired as of May 6, 2023, and is no longer available in the U.S. Those who did get the J&J shot are considered up-to-date when they follow the recommendations for getting one of the currently available updated vaccines.
Information in this article was accurate at the time of original publication. Because information about COVID changes rapidly, we encourage you to visit the websites of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and your state and local government.
COVID-19 is now in its sixth year, and the subvariants of the Omicron strain continue to drive infections in the United States. The good news is that vaccines, which have been updated each year since 2022, are still expected to be effective at preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death from COVID.
In the U.S., infants and children (six months and older), and adults are eligible to be vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As the SARS-CoV-2 virus mutates and new variants continue to emerge, it’s important to keep up with how well the updated vaccines are performing.
We mapped out a comparison of the COVID vaccines in the United States.
Where to get a COVID vaccine
As with previous COVID vaccines, the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines are available at participating pharmacies and provider offices. To find a location near you that carries the vaccine and to schedule an appointment, go to Vaccines.gov. You can also call 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
This story was reviewed by Yale Medicine infectious diseases specialist Scott Roberts, MD.
Note: None of the COVID vaccines change—or interact with—a recipient’s DNA.
Information provided in Yale Medicine articles is for general informational purposes only. No content in the articles should ever be used as a substitute for medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always seek the individual advice of your health care provider with any question
