Washington, D.C. – As the fall season approaches, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved updated Covid-19 vaccines, aiming to enhance protection against evolving variants. However, eligibility has been narrowed this year, sparking questions about who can receive these new vaccines and under what conditions. This update comes amid ongoing efforts to control the pandemic while ensuring high-risk populations remain protected.
The updated vaccines will primarily target adults 65 and older as well as younger individuals with medical conditions that increase their risk for severe Covid-19 infection. Federal health officials highlight that while anyone interested in the vaccine can consult their doctor to possibly receive it, the FDA’s narrower approval guidelines could limit accessibility for some who were previously eligible under broader criteria.
Narrowed Eligibility and High-Risk Conditions
The FDA has restricted approval for the updated Covid-19 vaccines to two main groups:
- Adults aged 65 and older.
- Individuals of any age with underlying medical conditions that elevate their risk of severe Covid-19 illness.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) enumerates a comprehensive list of conditions regarded as high risk, including:
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- Chronic kidney and lung disease
- HIV
- Pregnancy
- Mood disorders
- Immunosuppression
Experts estimate that between 100 million and 200 million Americans may qualify under these guidelines. This focused eligibility aims to prioritize those who stand the most to benefit, but it also raises concerns over reduced access in comparison to previous vaccine rollouts.
Where and When You Can Get the Vaccines
Leading vaccine manufacturers, including Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax, have announced that their updated vaccines will be available nationwide in the coming days. Vaccinations will be offered at various locations, such as:
- Pharmacies
- Clinics
- Doctor’s offices
Major pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens have expressed readiness to provide the updated shots where permitted by state regulations. However, CVS has noted restrictions in providing vaccinations in 16 states and Washington, D.C. until further guidance is given by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, expected to convene in mid-September.
Complexities Around Children and Pregnant People
Eligibility for children and pregnant individuals remains nuanced and somewhat complicated. Current approvals include:
- Moderna’s vaccine is authorized for children as young as 6 months old if they have high-risk medical conditions.
- Novavax’s vaccine is approved for children aged 12 and older with qualifying risk factors.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has advocated for broader access by recommending vaccination for children starting at 6 months, emphasizing the need to protect younger populations.
Pregnant individuals remain on the high-risk list and are encouraged to get vaccinated, although vaccine administration may depend on healthcare provider discretion.
Insurance Coverage and Off-Label Vaccinations
Public insurance programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, are expected to cover the cost of the updated Covid-19 vaccines. However, private insurance coverage may vary widely, especially concerning loosely defined high-risk conditions like physical inactivity.
Healthcare providers may also administer vaccines “off-label” to individuals not strictly meeting the outlined criteria. Access in such cases depends heavily on the willingness and judgment of individual doctors or pharmacists.
Co-Administration of Flu and Covid-19 Vaccines
For those eligible for both influenza and Covid-19 vaccinations, the CDC permits receiving both vaccines at the same visit. This approach aims to simplify protection efforts during the fall and winter seasons, which traditionally see a rise in respiratory illnesses.
Meanwhile, combination vaccines that target both flu and Covid-19 are currently in development, with companies like Pfizer and Moderna conducting clinical trials to evaluate safety and efficacy.
“While eligibility criteria have tightened, it is essential to protect individuals most vulnerable to severe Covid-19 outcomes. We encourage everyone to consult their healthcare provider to determine the best approach for vaccination this fall,” said a federal health official.
What Do Experts Recommend? Key Takeaways
- Adults 65+ and individuals with specific health conditions are prioritized for the updated vaccine.
- Children and pregnant people with risk factors should consult healthcare providers about vaccination.
- Vaccines will be available soon at pharmacies and clinics nationwide, though access may vary by state.
- Insurance coverage is mostly assured for public programs; private insurer policies may differ.
- Flu and Covid-19 vaccines can be safely administered together, and combination vaccines are under development.