Jason Mitton, planning a business trip, sought one of the new COVID-19 vaccines but faced a refusal at a pharmacy in Austin, Texas. The pharmacist asked if he had a doctor’s note, which he didn’t, leading to the claim that he didn’t qualify per FDA standards. Mitton, who is 55 and has controlled high blood pressure and cholesterol, plans to keep seeking the vaccine. “I think it’s ridiculous,” he expressed, emphasizing that people should have the right to choose to get vaccinated, feeling quite frustrated about the situation.
Similarly, Cheryl Hughes, 64, just outside Cleveland, had hoped to get another shot as the updated versions came out, but she was also found ineligible. “I’m furious,” she said. “Who wants to get sick?” This year marks a significant change where COVID vaccines are no longer accessible to the general public, regardless of age, by merely walking into a pharmacy.
The FDA has restricted vaccine approvals to those over 65 or with serious health risks. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former administration officials argue that most healthy, younger individuals have enough immunity that they do not need annual boosters. However, many Americans who don’t meet these criteria are keen on vaccination to protect themselves and vulnerable family members.
Independent health organizations, including the Infectious Disease Society of America, argue that everyone should have the choice to be vaccinated, given that vaccines have been shown to lower the risk of serious illness, including hospitalization and death.
Hughes, who is the sole caretaker for her husband with dementia, stressed the importance of remaining healthy to avoid the possibility of significant life changes for both of them, owing to sickness. “If I get sick, my husband might have to go into a care facility,” she said, outlining the stakes involved.
What it takes to get the shot
Secretary Kennedy maintains that the new guidelines shouldn’t hinder anyone from getting vaccinated. However, many have reported difficulties. Technically, if individuals qualify or can self-attest, they might still access the vaccine, but the reality often presents challenges such as shortages of the new vaccine supply or being turned away due to not meeting the criteria.
People have reported difficulties navigating from one pharmacy to another, and some have even ventured out of state to find vaccines. While Pfizer claims to be preparing large volumes similar to last year, access remains unclear due to narrower FDA approvals, with some clinics delaying ordering based on anticipated demand.
Claire Hannan, the executive director of the Association of Immunization Managers, expressed confidence that those who desire the vaccine will find access, but it may take extra effort. There’s also concern about clinics and pharmacies that are yet to receive their orders, potentially affecting availability this year.
On another note, eligibility could also revolve around health insurance coverage. Aetna and United Healthcare indicated they would cover the vaccine without additional costs for fully insured individuals, but uncertainties remain regarding other insurers and plans. Without coverage, a shot could cost around $200.
Fears for vulnerable family members, kids
Amid these challenges, many people are making efforts to secure vaccinations. Allison Cote from Bristol, Conn., shared her frustration while trying to protect her father with heart failure and other family members with diabetes. She’s also worried about her 16-month-old son, who isn’t eligible for vaccination under the current guidelines.
“It’s really upsetting,” Cote remarked, illustrating her feelings about the process. There’s a growing sense of anxiety among many who feel compelled to find workarounds to get vaccinated, even considering self-reporting eligibility despite ethical concerns.
Stephan Neidenbach from Annapolis, Md., expressed worries about possibly passing the virus to his elderly relatives or students. He, too, is contemplating misrepresenting his eligibility just to get the shot.
Therese McRae from Sandy, Utah, aims to get vaccinated mainly to safeguard her 4-year-old daughter, who has Type 1 diabetes. “It’s just very overwhelming and scary,” she said, voicing the trepidation many parents share regarding protecting their kids in the ongoing pandemic.
Karen Lambey, living near Richmond, Va., is also in need of a vaccine due to her immunocompromised state post-long COVID. She’s struggling to get a prescription, intensifying her feelings of disappointment and anxiety over the barriers to obtaining this critical health protection.
“These are all extra hurdles,” she noted, expressing her fear of the potential risks for her vulnerable family members. “That could potentially be life-threatening for them,” she concluded, capturing the urgent concern many people have amid this complex situation.
