The Brian Lehrer Show The Latest on COVID Shots
Sep 3, 2025
Caroline Lewis, a healthcare reporter for WNYC and Gothamist with a focus on vaccines, dives into the murky waters of COVID vaccine access this fall. She discusses the recent FDA approval of updated vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna, highlighting eligibility challenges, especially for seniors and young people with health conditions. Lewis sheds light on the stark differences in vaccine availability across states and pharmacies, and shares personal anecdotes showcasing the confusion many face due to inconsistent guidelines and mixed messages from providers.
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Limited FDA Approval Creates Confusion
- The FDA approved updated Pfizer and Moderna vaccines but limited automatic eligibility to people 65+ and some high-risk younger people.
- That limited approval creates confusion about who truly qualifies and how access will work.
Standing Orders Gone, Pharmacies Hesitate
- Pharmacies often rely on standing orders tied to CDC advisory recommendations to offer vaccines without prescriptions.
- Because the advisory committee hasn't issued recommendations, many pharmacies are pausing or requiring prescriptions.
Pharmacies Vary State By State
- Pharmacy chains are responding differently by state: CVS will stop offering shots in some states and require prescriptions in others.
- This patchwork means access can vary dramatically depending on where you live.