Just in case you missed it, there are new federal limitations for COVID-19 vaccines, and only residents 65 or older or those who have a qualifying condition can get the vaccine at a local pharmacy without a prescription.
In August, the Food and Drug Administration approved a new batch of COVID-19 vaccines, but limited eligibility to those at risk of serious complications if they get the virus — people over 65 or anyone with qualifying health conditions ranging from mental health conditions to cancer.
In the past, COVID-19 vaccines were available to anyone over 6 months old.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) changed its guidance for the vaccine during a Sept. 19 meeting, NPR reported, but backed away from requiring everyone to get a prescription for the vaccine. Several senior CDC officials resigned in protest in August, citing political interference with scientific decision-making on vaccines, according to reports from multiple agencies, including CBS News.
The Virginia Department of Health encourages residents who do not qualify for the vaccine to speak with their healthcare provider.
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Check your eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine
Interested in getting a COVID-19 vaccine in Virginia but confused about new federal requirements? If you are 65 or older or have qualifying conditions, you can get a vaccine at your local pharmacy. Other residents need to check eligibility and may need to speak with a healthcare provider and confirm insurance coverage.
A trade association representing health insurance companies says they plan to cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccines, but community members with private insurance should confirm coverage. Medicaid, Medicare, the Vaccines for Children Program and the Children’s Health Insurance Program will also cover the cost of the shots, according to a Sept. 19 statement from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Without insurance, the cost of a COVID-19 vaccine is between $224.99 and $249.99 at CVS pharmacies, according to the company.
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