Vials of Moderna’s updated COVID-19 vaccines are produced in August 2025 at a facility in Madrid. New U.S. government policies regarding shots and who’s eligible are causing confusion. AP

As the COVID-19 crisis receded, annual shots to prevent the deadly virus became a staple on fall to-do lists for many, just like flu vaccinations.

This year, the ground has shifted with the federal government reducing access and U.S. Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. casting doubt on vaccines despite scientific evidence of their efficacy.

Adding to the confusion are new eligibility rules.

So what should Illinoisans who want to get a COVID-19 shot do? Here are five key things to know.

1. It’s a fluid situation

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August approved updated vaccines for all senior

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