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2d ago

Pharmacies Curtail Covid Shots as FDA’s Narrower Labels Trigger State-by-State Limits

Pending ACIP guidance after narrower FDA labels has left access contingent on state rules.

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Medical groups warn that new unclear FDA limitations on who can receive the COVID vaccine may make it harder for postpartum people and healthy children to access the vaccine.
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Overview

  • CVS says it can vaccinate without a prescription in 34 states, may require a provider’s order in 16, and cannot vaccinate in Massachusetts, Nevada, or New Mexico under current laws.
  • Walgreens states it will offer shots only where state regulations allow, with some locations pausing appointments pending further direction.
  • The FDA authorized updated vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax for seniors and people with qualifying conditions, and it withdrew Pfizer’s authorization for children under 5.
  • For ages 6 months to 4 years, Moderna remains the only option and only for children with at least one qualifying medical condition.
  • ACIP has not issued 2025–26 recommendations ahead of its Sept. 18–19 meeting, which in many jurisdictions blocks standing orders and complicates insurance coverage, while a KFF poll shows nearly 60% of adults do not plan to get a shot this fall.