As uncertainty reigns at CDC, COVID vaccines are hard to find in Virginia

Gavin Stone, The Virginian-Pilot on Sep 7, 2025

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Virginians looking to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine will have to go through their doctor or get a prescription rather than go to through major pharmacies as uncertainty with federal guidelines persists.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s current guidance only references the 2024-25 coronavirus vaccine formulation, not the 2025-26 version, according to the Virginia Department of Health, though manufacturers have begun shipping the new vaccine. The New York Times reported last week that Virginia is among 13 states in which CVS is requiring a prescription for a vaccine and among 16 states in which Walgreens requires one.

It’s unclear why the two are requiring prescriptions in the commonwealth. A VDH spokesperson did not respond to an emailed question.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is expected to vote on the new COVID vaccine during a meeting Sept. 18-19 and, if approved, pharmacists will then be able to administer the vaccine, according to the health department.

“Individuals who received the 2024-2025 COVID-19 formulation should consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine if and when they should receive the 2025-2026 formulation,” a health department spokesperson said in an email, adding that the department is “actively collaborating with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy on this issue.”

“At this time, Virginians can contact their healthcare provider to ask about receiving the COVID vaccine or to request a prescription for administration at their pharmacy,” they continued.

A reporter attempted to schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine online at Walgreens and CVS. CVS’ website said as of Friday the vaccine was unavailable “due to state restrictions or inventory.” Walgreens’ website earlier this week said a prescription was required to make an appointment but did not require proof. As of Friday, the site states that the 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine is available only for those 65 and older and those under 65 with certain health conditions and/or risk factors, but does not show the same message about requiring a prescription prior to making an appointment.

Local pharmacies are able to offer the vaccines as long as they adhere to guidelines laid out by the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. The Prescription Shoppe in Williamsburg, for example, expects to have the 2025-26 version of the vaccine by Sept. 15, according to co-owner Jade Ranger.

Ranger said her pharmacy can offer the vaccine without a prescription because of a collaborative practice agreement that allows them to “work around” CDC recommendations.

“When you’re dealing with these major retailers, they are always scared of litigation,” Ranger said. “They essentially take much stricter steps as it relates to what they’re doing, and it’s not because the board is forcing them to do that, it’s something that they are deciding internally.”

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