CVS Withholding COVID Vaccines in 15 States and DC: Analyzing the Regulatory Environment
CVS Withholding COVID Vaccines in 15 States and DC
CVS Health is not currently planning to provide the updated annual COVID-19 vaccine in over a dozen states, citing the regulatory environment as the reason. A spokesperson stated that, due to the current regulatory climate, the pharmacy chain will restrict vaccinations in the following locations:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Utah
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- District of Columbia
Under these restrictions, customers may still access the updated COVID-19 vaccines if they provide an authorized prescriber’s prescription. However, CVS locations in Massachusetts, Nevada, and New Mexico will not be administering these vaccines.
FDA Approvals and Access
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the updated COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer for seniors and those with underlying conditions that increase their risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. Moderna's vaccine is approved for individuals aged six months to 64 years, while Pfizer's approval spans ages 5 to 64 years.
Prior to the latest guidance, individuals six months and older could receive at least one dose of either company’s updated COVID-19 shots. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. remarked on social media that vaccines will still be available for all patients seeking them after discussing with their healthcare providers.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.