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CDC Backs Broad Fall COVID Vaccination as Pharmacies and States Safeguard Access

Pharmacies report nationwide supply under the CDC’s shared decision model despite FDA labels prioritizing older or high‑risk patients.

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Overview

  • On Oct. 6, the CDC adopted ACIP guidance recommending COVID-19 vaccination for everyone 6 months and older using shared clinical decision‑making with a provider.
  • FDA approvals in August emphasize use for people 65+ and for younger individuals with qualifying conditions, and some providers may decline to vaccinate healthy adults under 65 based on the label.
  • Twenty-one states and the District of Columbia have enacted measures such as standing orders or broader recommendations intended to preserve access for those seeking COVID shots.
  • CVS says updated COVID vaccinations are available in all 50 states without outside prescriptions, with online booking and walk‑ins offered at pharmacies and MinuteClinics.
  • Flu guidance remains unchanged for annual shots starting at 6 months of age, HHS moved in July to eliminate thimerosal in flu vaccines, RSV vaccination remains targeted to older and at‑risk adults, and COVID uptake remains low at 23% of adults as of April.