COVID-19
A respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2.
What causes COVID-19?
COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2, a coronavirus that spreads mainly through infectious respiratory particles released when an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs, or sneezes.
Symptoms and what to notice
Fever or chills, cough, sore throat, congestion, fatigue, body aches, headache, or loss of taste or smell; symptoms vary widely.
How long can it last?
Many acute cases improve within days to a few weeks; some people develop longer-lasting symptoms (Long COVID).
How serious is COVID-19?
Can cause pneumonia, hospitalization, blood clots, organ complications, and death, especially in higher-risk groups.
Treatment and management
Early antiviral treatment may reduce severe disease in eligible higher-risk patients. Seek prompt medical advice because treatment windows are short.
Vaccine name, eligibility, doses, and cost
Current U.S. products include Comirnaty, Spikevax, MNEXSPIKE, and Nuvaxovid. The recommended number and timing of 2026-2027 doses depend on age, immune status, previous doses, and current CDC guidance, so use the current schedule rather than an older fixed dose count.
Approximate U.S. cost: CDC 2026-2027 private-sector benchmarks are about $129-$170 per dose for listed pediatric and adult products before administration fees. Recommended vaccines may be covered by insurance; uninsured patient prices vary by provider and assistance eligibility.
Official U.S. guidance
Read the current CDC guidance for COVID-19 →
Understanding prices: Patient cost varies by insurance, provider, location, and eligibility. Many recommended vaccines are covered with no out-of-pocket cost under qualifying plans, and eligible children may receive vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program. CDC price lists are purchasing benchmarks—not guaranteed patient prices. CDC price context.