The big picture
The COVID-19 vaccine has been updated again this year to better target circulating strains. The CDC has released new guidance, but Massachusetts has separate recommendations.
Massachusetts update
On September 4, Gov. Maura Healey announced that pharmacists at retail pharmacies across the state are now allowed to give COVID-19 vaccines to anyone age five and older. Children of all ages can be vaccinated in pediatricians’ offices.
The key difference in Massachusetts? Eligibility is now based on criteria set by the state’s public health commissioner—not the CDC. That gives Massachusetts a little more flexibility.
Also important: Health insurers in the state are now required to cover COVID-19 vaccines based on state guidelines rather than federal ones. That means broader access for more people, sooner.
According to Massachusetts guidelines, the following groups should receive the new formulation of the vaccine:
- Children ages 6-23 months
- Healthy children who have never received a COVID-19 vaccine
- Children who are residents of long-term care facilities
- Adults over the age of 65
- Children and adults with medical conditions associated with a higher risk for severe COVID-19
- People who are pregnant, contemplating pregnancy or have recently been pregnant or who are lactating.
- Healthcare workers
- Anyone else may receive the vaccine if they so choose.
What should you do?
If you’re in one of the groups listed above, make an appointment at a retail pharmacy or your child’s pediatrician for this year’s vaccine. If you want more information, such as how long to wait after a COVID-19 infection or previous vaccination, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you figure out whether the updated vaccine is right for you and when you should get it.
If you’re outside Massachusetts, your local pharmacy or health department can give you the most up-to-date info for your area, including what’s covered by insurance and what’s currently available.
Bottom line
Vaccine guidance is shifting, but one thing hasn’t changed—getting vaccinated is still one of the best ways to protect yourself and the people around you. Whether you're eligible now or waiting for broader recommendations, stay in the loop and plan ahead.
Need help deciding what’s right for you? Just ask your clinician. They’ll walk you through your options.
Think your sniffles might be something more? Tufts Medicine’s Symptom Checker can help you find out what's causing your symptoms and help you get care.
