Benton County residents seeking the latest COVID-19 vaccine may face new hurdles as federal guidelines have significantly restricted eligibility for the 2025-26 formulation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the updated COVID-19 vaccine on Aug. 27 but limited eligibility to adults 65 and older and individuals with high-risk health conditions — a notable change from previous years when vaccines were more broadly available to the general public.
However, several major medical organizations have issued their own expanded recommendations beyond the FDA’s restrictions. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports vaccination for children, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends it for pregnant individuals, and the American Academy for Family Physicians endorses vaccines for adults under 65.
The Oregon Health Authority has voiced support for these broader medical organization recommendations while awaiting additional guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the newly formed West Coast Health Alliance.
“There are two ways to get a COVID-19 vaccine in Oregon — through your health care provider’s office or at a pharmacy with a provider’s prescription,” Benton County Health Services officials said through a press release.
Vaccine manufacturers have begun shipping doses to Oregon with supplies gradually arriving throughout the state. Pharmacies may receive shipments before local clinics, officials noted.
Benton County Health Services currently does not have COVID-19 vaccines in stock. The county health department receives its vaccine supplies from the Oregon Health Authority, which is still awaiting details from the CDC.
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is scheduled to meet Sept. 18-19, after which more information should be available.
For residents seeking the vaccination, health officials recommend contacting health-care providers or pharmacies to check current availability and determine eligibility. Many health insurance plans cover COVID-19 vaccines and residents are encouraged to contact their insurance companies to verify coverage.
While vaccine access remains limited, Benton County Health Services encourages residents to continue following proven prevention methods including regular handwashing, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and testing for COVID-19 when appropriate.
Officials also recommend considering well-fitting masks in crowded indoor settings, particularly when community transmission levels are high or when around vulnerable populations including older adults, young children or individuals with chronic conditions.
Oregon recently joined Washington, California and Hawaii to form the West Coast Health Alliance, which aims to provide clear, science-based vaccine guidance and ensure access to recommended vaccines during the upcoming respiratory virus season.
Residents with questions about vaccine eligibility or availability are encouraged to contact their health-care providers or pharmacists and consult their individual insurance plans.For updates about COVID-19 vaccine availability in Benton County, visit the county health services website.