Health
CDC Panel Limits Fall Covid Shots to At-Risk Groups
Health Points
- The CDC advisory panel now recommends Covid shots for adults 65 and older or those with certain health conditions.
- People under 65 are advised to consult their doctor, focusing on personal risk.
- The new guidance could make access harder for healthy younger adults and children.
The CDC panel shifted its fall Covid vaccine recommendation to focus on adults over 65 or those with underlying health issues, narrowing previous guidance that included almost everyone over six months old.
This update reflects recent FDA approval and leaves decisions for younger, healthy adults to personal discussions with their healthcare providers.
“It’s important to note that we continue to see severe disease from Covid-19, leading to hospitalizations and deaths,” said Dr. Robert Hopkins Jr., medical director of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.
Pharmacies are waiting for official guidance before giving out Covid shots, and some states are making their own rules to help residents access vaccines.
The new recommendation did not include details on which conditions increase risk, but the CDC lists many, including asthma, cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
Doctors may still offer the vaccine off label, though insurance and Medicare coverage could vary by provider and state.
Stay informed about vaccine updates and talk to your doctor to make the best health decision for you or your family.
