A third shot, from Novavax, has yet to be approved, but health officials are urging people to get it (which is no longer called a booster) as the number of people testing positive continues to rise and hospitalizations also increase.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s COVID vaccine.

When will the new COVID vaccines be available?

The new shots are likely to be available in the coming days, officials say, ahead of last year’s launch, when they weren’t available at pharmacies and doctors’ offices until September.

How effective will the new COVID vaccine be against newer blights?

As with any flu vaccine, that’s unclear at this point. The new vaccines target the KP.2 strain, a mutation of the variant that spread widely last winter. However, KP.2 is disappearing as other related strains gain popularity. The KP.3.1.1 strain currently accounts for 36% of new COVID cases, while KP.3 accounts for 17%.

However, experts say the shot offers protection against serious illness even if you do contract the virus.

Who should get the new COVID vaccine?

Last year, just 22.5% of Americans got the updated COVID vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is hoping for higher numbers this year and is urging everyone 6 months and older to get the shot, but is urging people 65 and older or with health conditions such as weakened immune systems or obesity to get it.

Should I get vaccinated against COVID right away or should I wait until winter approaches?

A lot depends on your situation. If you’re high risk or elderly, the CDC recommends getting the shot as soon as possible. If you were hit by the summer COVID surge, you may want to consider delaying the shot for up to three months, since you likely have some natural immunity.

For people who are young and healthy, there are two ways to look at the timing. The new vaccines are timed to the current wave, meaning you’ll likely see a greater benefit from what’s available now. However, waiting until later in the fall, in September or October, may give you the most protection during the winter months.

Can I get my flu shot and the new COVID vaccine at the same time?

Yes, it is safe to get both shots at the same time, health officials say.