FDA Limits COVID-19 Vaccine to Older Adults, Insurers Vary Coverage Nationwide

Federal health officials under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have narrowed COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to individuals 65 and older or those with certain health conditions, sparking confusion among families and healthcare providers. This policy shift contrasts with some state and private health entities, such as California's Kaiser Permanente and New York insurers, which continue to offer or cover vaccinations for broader populations, including children and healthy adults. Public health experts have raised concerns about the administration's vaccine safety analyses, which rely on datasets like VAERS that are not designed to establish causation, amid reports of rare adverse events. States like Arizona have issued orders to ensure wider vaccine access following federal restrictions, while pharmacies remain vital sources of vaccine information and administration. The mixed messaging and changes in federal leadership have created uncertainty about vaccine coverage and eligibility, prompting some lawmakers to consider state-level guidelines and insurance mandates to maintain access. Overall, the evolving federal stance has complicated efforts to prepare for the expected winter surge and has led to varied responses across states and healthcare providers.