While the COVID-19 public health emergency has ended, new variants of the virus continue to emerge, and updated vaccines are being released to prevent against severe cases.

The CDC recommends the 2023-24 updated COVID-19 vaccines for everyone ages 5 and older. Everyone aged 5 years and older should get one dose of the updated 2023-24 Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to protect against serious illness from COVID-19.

People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised can receive additional doses. Children ages 6 months to 4 years need multiple dosses of COVID-19 vaccines to be up to date, including at least one dose of the 2023-24 updated COVID-19 vaccine. Discuss any concerns with your health care provider.

For most people, COVID-19 vaccines are covered at 100% in-network as part of the Affordable Care Act’s list of preventive benefits. If you get a vaccine from an out-of-network provider, you may pay out-of-pocket expenses up to the full cost of the vaccine.

Employer plans that aren’t subject to the Affordable Care Act’s requirements don’t have to cover the cost of vaccines. They may choose to cover the cost anyway.

Confirm your immunization benefits on your Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan or Blue Care Network policy by logging into your online account at bcbsm.com and searching for immunizations within your plan's benefits.

If you get a diagnostic COVID-19 test at a health care provider, testing facility or lab whether or not you're experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you’ll pay the standard copay and deductible under your medical benefit. This includes any out-of-network health care provider charges. Blue Cross doesn’t cover the costs of testing for employment, travel or participants in school and sports.

Confirm your diagnostic test benefits by logging into your online account and searching for diagnostic tests within your plan's benefits.

Over the counter tests, or OTC, kits are not covered for most people. You can purchase these test kits using your HSA plan (if you have one) or pay for them out of pocket.

The Biden administration is funding an additional set of four free at-home COVID-19 rapid tests for every U.S. household via mail delivery. Find no-cost antigen and PCR test locations near you via the CDC testing locator site.

Treatment by health care providers is subject to standard copays and deductibles. Follow the CDC for the latest guidance. Also learn more from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Confirm your benefits by logging into your online account.

Also access your benefits via the BCBSM mobile app or by calling the number on the back of your card.