With the arrival of fall, respiratory viruses are also making their presence known.
Dr. Michelle Morse, the acting health commissioner and chief medical officer for the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, recently shared insights about flu and COVID-19 vaccines during a conversation with All Things Considered host Sean Carlson.
Her main message? “It’s time to get your COVID flu and RSV vaccine if you’re eligible.”
Here’s a summarized version of their discussion:
Sean Carlson: Who should be getting the COVID and flu vaccines at this time?
Dr. Michelle Morse: There’s a lot of confusion around this, and I’m here to clarify for New Yorkers and your audience. First off, anyone aged 6 months and older has no safety concerns regarding the COVID vaccine. We recommend everyone in this age group get the updated COVID shot this fall to protect themselves ahead of the respiratory virus season.
We particularly urge certain groups to get vaccinated: those over 65, anyone who is pregnant or planning to become pregnant, and infants between 6 and 24 months. These groups, in particular, will gain significant benefits.
The CDC’s Vaccine Advisory Board is now advising people to talk to their doctors before getting a COVID vaccine. What does that entail?
I want to make it clear—if you don’t have a specific medical issue that requires further discussion with your physician, you generally don’t need to consult anyone beforehand. There haven’t been any new safety concerns reported about the COVID vaccine. My strong recommendation, and that of the city, in collaboration with the state health commissioner, is for anyone aged 6 months and older to proceed with getting that vaccine.
I’m concerned that the confusing messages from our vaccination advisory council and the current U.S. health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., may lead to unnecessary worries. We want to be very clear that it’s advised for individuals 6 months old and up to receive the updated COVID vaccine.
How can New Yorkers get the vaccine at a pharmacy? Is a prescription required?
Fortunately, thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent executive order, New Yorkers don’t need a prescription. The NYC Health Department has also updated the New York City health map with fresh information on where to obtain the COVID vaccine. It not only tells you where you can go based on your location, but also considers insurance options. There are also places listed for those without insurance or unable to pay for the vaccine.
This summer, it seemed many people were falling ill with COVID, and the City Health Department noted a rise in COVID cases during August. If someone recently had COVID, do they still need the vaccine?
We’ve indeed observed a slight increase in emergency room visits and hospitalizations related to COVID, especially among the very young and those over 65. COVID is still present. Generally, if you’ve just recovered from COVID, it’s advisable to wait about three months before getting the vaccine, but you can get it any time after you feel better.
For personalized advice, talking to your primary care doctor about the best timing is a good idea.
What about insurance? Will it cover the vaccine?
We’re pleased to announce that all insurance providers across New York City and New York State have committed to covering the COVID vaccine. This is vital—no one should have to pay for vaccines. They’re safe, effective, and crucial for public health, often lifesaving, as we witnessed during the peak of the COVID crisis. Sadly, last flu season was among the worst in recent memory.
RSV is also circulating, so we want to minimize barriers to obtaining respiratory vaccines. Our insurers have assured us that these vaccines will be covered, making it the perfect time for everyone to get their COVID, flu, and, if eligible, RSV vaccines.
If someone lacks insurance, what options do they have?
At the City Health Department, we strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of their ability to pay, where they live, or their documentation status, can access vital vaccines and healthcare. The NYC Health map lists several locations offering these vaccines for the respiratory virus season, even for those without insurance.
We’ve discussed the federal guidelines, and it’s clear some may feel perplexed by the new vaccine recommendations. As a local health official, how do you interpret federal instructions to shape New York City’s vaccine policy?
This represents a significant challenge right now. Typically, we rely on the federal government and the CDC to provide accurate public information. Unfortunately, that’s not the case at the moment, and it complicates our efforts. Regardless of the federal stance, we will continue to distribute reliable information via social media, radio discussions like this one, videos, and various communication methods to ensure clarity.
Once more, respiratory virus season is upon us. If you’re eligible, it’s time to get your COVID, flu, and RSV vaccines. They are safe and effective. That hasn’t changed. We are committed to making sure these vaccines are free and accessible for everyone, especially those at the highest risk.
That was Dr. Michelle Morse, New York City Health Commissioner. Thank you for joining us.
Thank you, Sean.
