"If you want a COVID shot, it can be frustrating to try to get one right now. That's because the Food and Drug Administration has narrowed its approval for this year's shots to only certain groups: those 65 and older, and people at high risk for developing severe illness from the virus. It's a major departure from policy in past years, when the vaccines had been approved for anyone 6 months and older."
"Trump administration health officials argue that most otherwise healthy, younger people have so much immunity that they don't necessarily need annual boosters anymore. But many doctors' groups say it's a good idea to get one to avoid serious illness or spreading it to others who may be high-risk. So the change means you may have to work harder to get a shot. In the past, you could just walk into a pharmacy and ask for one."
FDA narrowed authorization for current COVID vaccine doses to people 65 and older and individuals at high risk for severe illness, removing universal approval for anyone 6 months and older. Trump administration officials cite strong immunity among otherwise healthy younger people as a reason annual boosters may be unnecessary. Many medical groups continue to recommend boosters to prevent severe illness and transmission to high-risk individuals. Pharmacies may turn away people who do not meet eligibility, though eligible patients can often self-attest risk factors without documentation. Some pharmacies currently require a prescription pending CDC advisory guidance.
Read at www.npr.org
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