CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginians hoping to receive the newly updated COVID-19 vaccine will face new hurdles at major pharmacy chains. Both CVS and Walgreens confirmed they will only provide the 2025–26 vaccine in the state if patients first obtain a prescription.
CVS Pharmacy said in a statement Friday that it is offering the updated vaccines without a prescription in 34 states, but must follow stricter rules in West Virginia and a dozen others. “Based on the current regulatory environment, CVS Pharmacy is offering FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccinations” in states where allowed, the company said.
That means in West Virginia, customers cannot walk into CVS and receive the updated shot without a doctor’s order.
Walgreens is taking a similar approach. According to The New York Times, the chain requires prescriptions for the vaccine in 16 states, including West Virginia.
The prescription requirement comes as federal officials encourage Americans to get the new shot ahead of the fall and winter respiratory virus season. The updated vaccine was authorized earlier this week and is expected to arrive in pharmacies across the country in the coming days.
While the vaccine remains available in West Virginia, the added step of securing a prescription could delay access for residents who do not have a primary care provider or who face barriers in making medical appointments.
