A state health official denounced the “unfounded and unsupported barriers” the federal Food and Drug Administration created in rolling back vaccine access. (Courtesy of New Jersey Governor’s Office)
The New Jersey Department of Health has authorized pharmacies and pediatricians statewide to give COVID-19 vaccines to anyone 6 months or older, a move meant to protect access to the shots after federal health officials last month announced new eligibility restrictions limiting them to people over 65 or with other health problems.
Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown issued an executive directive Monday denouncing the “unfounded and unsupported barriers” the federal Food and Drug Administration created in rolling back vaccine access.
The feds’ restrictions are at odds with guidance from groups including the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Family Physicians, which have recommended widespread COVID-19 immunizations and endorsed their safety, Brown noted. Since the coronavirus outbreak began in 2020, COVID-19 vaccines typically have been available to anyone six months or older.
“This is about equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine, which has been proven to prevent serious illness and hospitalization,” Brown said in a statement. “Especially as we enter cold and flu season and as students head back to school, New Jerseyans are reminded to stay up to date on all recommended vaccinations.”
Novneet Sahu, the department’s deputy commissioner of public health services, also issued a standing order Monday authorizing pharmacists and other pharmacy staff to administer COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription to anyone 3 and older. Children under 3 can get immunizations from their pediatricians.
Gov. Phil Murphy said the orders are meant to ensure that anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine can get one in New Jersey. The administration also urged health insurance carriers to cover the shots’ costs free of charge to ensure widespread access.
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