A new COVID-19 variant is spreading across the U.S., including in New York, raising fresh concerns just as federal vaccine guidance shifts yet again, leaving many families uncertain about what to do next.

The variant, which has been detected in several states, including Ohio and Rhode Island, is spreading more quickly than previous strains. However, health officials say there’s no current evidence suggesting it causes more severe illness.

At the same time, updated federal recommendations about COVID boosters are causing confusion. The FDA now states that only older adults and individuals with certain medical conditions may require a booster shot this fall. Meanwhile, the CDC has stopped recommending COVID shots for healthy children and pregnant women — a move that some experts are questioning.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said the announcement caught even him by surprise.

“It was a statement, but it’s not the official policy of the federal government just yet,” Dr. McDonald said. “Normally, this would go through the advisory committee, then CDC, and then FDA — so it’s unusual.”

Dr. McDonald emphasized that decisions about vaccination should be made between patients and their doctors, especially as vulnerable groups remain at risk.

“There are studies that show you can reduce hospitalization in pregnant women with COVID by up to 90%,” he said. “We’ve seen real success with vaccines for flu, RSV, and COVID. Last year, for the first time, we had vaccines for all three, and we didn’t see a triple pandemic.”

With a potentially updated fall booster on the horizon — and eligibility likely narrowed — health officials are urging New Yorkers to consult their healthcare providers before deciding to skip their next shot.