A new COVID-19 booster vaccine will be available to Hoosiers by the end of the week after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance. The new booster is designed to address strains of the virus that have caused an increase in hospitalizations over the last few months.

As the federal government’s public health emergency declaration for COVID-19 expired May 11, the Marion County Public Health Department announced that it will continue to offer free vaccinations at nine locations.

The 2-1 decision by a panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans applies only to contracts involving Indiana, Louisiana and Mississippi.

A CDC advisory panel recently recommended that state officials add the COVID-19 vaccine to the list of routine immunizations for children. But it's unlikely Indiana will do so.

As the federal government begins the process of authorizing more COVID-19 vaccine boosters, local health care organizations are making preparations to get those shots out to Hoosiers.

Ahead of students returning to school, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging parents to get their students COVID-19 vaccines. It says the approach helps protect students and their families.

The Marion County Public Health Department said the new pediatric vaccine for children 6 months through 4 years is available to families by appointment.

In a statement, the state health department said booster doses help prevent hospitalization and death from COVID-19 and variants. Statewide cases have more than doubled in just the last month.

Congress rejected pleas from the White House to pump more money into programs that ensure COVID tests, treatments and vaccines are free for everyone. Public health experts warn the funding cuts will worsen health disparities and hurt those who are already most vulnerable.