COVID-19 Vaccine Access Limited at Major Pharmacies Amid Shifting State Guidelines
WASHINGTON – Access to updated COVID-19 vaccines is becoming increasingly restricted at major pharmacy chains โขlike Walgreens and CVS, mirroringโฃ a pattern of limited availability tied to evolving state-level public health directives. โคWith the โrecent FDA approval of the 2025-2026 โขCOVID-19 vaccineโ formulation, both pharmacies are now offering the shot only in locationsโ where state guidelines permit, leaving millions possibly without easy access to the latest protection against โthe virus.
The shift comes as health officials prepare for a potential winterโ surge and emphasize the importance of updated vaccinations, โขparticularly for vulnerable populations. The limited rollout raises concerns โabout equitable access and couldโฃ hinder efforts to maintainโข population immunity. While the pharmacies maintain they are prepared to administer the vaccine โwhere authorized,the patchwork of state regulations creates a complex landscape for individuals seeking protection.
walgreens announced its approach in a statement to CBS News, confirming it is indeed “preparedโ to offer the vaccine in the states where possible.” The New York Times reports that Walgreens is currently requiring prescriptions for the vaccine in a number of states, though a specific list was not provided in the source material.
experts recommend receiving the updated โvaccine between the end โof September and October to โฃallow sufficientโค time for immunity to develop before an anticipated winter wave, according to The New York Times. Additionally, health professionals advise โwaiting at least three months after aโ COVID-19 infection before vaccination to maximize vaccine effectiveness.