Some Maine pharmacies to require prescriptions for COVID vaccines

Published: Friday, August 29, 2025 at 7:37 pm

Maine Pharmacies to Require Prescriptions for New COVID-19 Vaccines

Several pharmacies in Maine are implementing new requirements for the updated COVID-19 vaccines, following recent guidance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). CVS announced it will only administer the vaccine to individuals with a prescription from their doctor. This decision aligns with the FDA's updated recommendations, which now primarily authorize the vaccine for those over 65 and individuals with existing health problems.

Hannaford pharmacies will also adhere to these guidelines, with the new vaccine expected to be available next week. Customers will need a prescription to receive the shot. These changes represent a shift from previous U.S. policy, which recommended annual COVID-19 vaccines for all Americans over six months old. Healthy individuals under 65 are now required to consult their doctor for approval.

The FDA's decision has drawn criticism. Dr. Nirav Shah, former Maine CDC director, expressed concern that the new restrictions will make the vaccine harder and more expensive to obtain, potentially leading to lower vaccination rates. The Infectious Diseases Society of America has also voiced strong opposition, stating the decision undermines trust in science-driven policy and limits access to protection.

The move comes as COVID activity has increased this summer. The availability of the vaccine varies among pharmacies. CVS will require prescriptions in Maine, while Walgreens is currently not booking appointments. MaineHealth is expected to release more information next week.

BNN's Perspective: While the FDA's updated guidelines aim to focus vaccine efforts on those most vulnerable, the new prescription requirement could create barriers to access. Striking a balance between targeted protection and broad availability will be crucial to effectively manage the ongoing pandemic.

Keywords: COVID-19 vaccine, Maine, CVS, FDA, prescription, Hannaford, Walgreens, vaccine access, health guidelines, vaccination, public health, vaccine availability, COVID-19, vaccine restrictions

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