The vaccine landscape is changing at a rapid pace. Determining which vaccines are available, covered by insurance, and recommended can be hard to discern and can differ according to the news source you check, where you live, and the date you look up information. Outlined below are answers to questions you may have right now about vaccines in the United States. We will adjust the date on this page as we make updates and as new information comes in.
Five Essential Truths
The main points about vaccines, which have repeatedly been backed by science and will not change, are as follows:
- Vaccines are our most reliable and effective tool to prevent deadly diseases.
- Vaccines are safe.
- Vaccines have saved millions of lives.
- Vaccines have helped to increase life expectancy and improve quality of life.
- Vaccines do not cause autism.
Vaccine Updates as of September 9, 2025
COVID Vaccination Availability
What’s the Status on This Season’s COVID Vaccine?
The Food and Drug Administration approved a new round of COVID-19 shots from Moderna, Novavax, and Pfizer on August 27. They are currently available in several locations (availability varies state by state). Additional availability will likely be dictated by outcomes from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting on September 18. Last season’s COVID vaccines may also still be available in some locations.
View COVID-19 vaccine availability by state in this spreadsheet developed by public health expert Laurel Bristow.
Who Can Get This Season’s COVID Vaccine?
It’s currently just approved for people over 65 or those with underlying medical conditions. Though, this could change pending the outcomes from the ACIP meeting.
What Happens if ACIP Doesn’t Recommend the COVID-19 Vaccine?
A lot of things could happen. It could limit whether insurance will cover the vaccine. It may prevent pharmacies from ordering enough doses to cover demand for people who want the vaccine but may not qualify for a vaccine. It may also make some physicians hesitant to administer the vaccine.
Can I Get a COVID Vaccine if I Want One (Even if I Don’t Fall Under a Recommended Group)?
Maybe. You can ask your doctor if they can administer the dose for you or write you a prescription for one. Prescriptions are starting to be required at various pharmacy locations like Walgreens and CVS in certain states. Or you can contact your state health department to see if you can get yours there. Georgia Department of Public Health, for instance, has stated in a September 2 story they will administer vaccines without prescriptions. If you do not fall under a recommended group or have an underlying medical condition, it may affect whether insurance will cover the cost of your vaccine (you may have to pay for it out of pocket). Last year's out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 vaccines were about $180.
Where Can I Get the Latest COVID-19 Vaccine?
It is currently available at some pharmacies, doctors' offices, and health departments. Availability will be determined largely by recommendations made during the ACIP panel meeting on September 18. And, whether (and where) you can get it depends on your age, pre-existing factors that put you at risk, and where you live.
Childhood Immunizations
What’s Going on In Florida with Childhood Vaccines?
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo and Gov. Ron DeSantis made an announcement September 3 about the state’s plans to end vaccine mandates in Florida, including those currently required for enrollment in public schools. It is unclear if or when those plans will come to fruition.
This move is in direct opposition to medical advice and proven public health evidence on the safety and efficacy of childhood vaccination at preventing serious diseases. The American Academy of Pediatrics put out a statement later the same day warning the dangers this action may pose to children if it comes to pass.
Will That Happen in Other States?
It’s anyone’s guess. But vaccine preventable-diseases can only be prevented when vaccines are administered at a high enough level to achieve herd immunity. What is certain, is that if states begin dropping vaccine requirements or making it more difficult to receive vaccines, people will become sick and dangerous diseases will become more prevalent. This could significantly harm human health and will cost lives.
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