COVID cases spiked in the U.S. in early September, according to recent data from the CDC. But getting a COVID vaccine isn’t as easy as it was even a year ago, due to changing vaccine guidelines and cuts to vaccine development funding. Previously, COVID vaccines were approved and encouraged for anyone 6 months or older.
Now, recent changes prompted by Trump Administration health officials and approved by the FDA require a health consultation for those under 65 without pre-existing conditions that increase their risk of severe illness.
This could change again or be solidified when the CDC advisory committee that issues specific recommendations for who should get vaccinated is scheduled to meet Sept. 18 and 19, according to NPR.
The level of difficulty in obtaining a COVID vaccine currently varies, depending on your age, your health, state regulations and your pharmacy.
Here’s what we know about COVID shots in Florida and whether or not you need a prescription as of Sept. 17.
Do you need a prescription to get a COVID vaccine?
In Florida, as of Sept. 17, 2025, you do need a medical recommendation or prescription to receive a COVID vaccine at most pharmacies, unless you are 65 or older or have a pre-existing health condition that puts you at risk for severe illness.
Are current COVID shots available? What to know about 2025 COVID vaccines
Yes, updated COVID shots from Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax were approved by the FDA in August and are available for those 65 and older and those with pre-existing health conditions or a prescription for the vaccine.
Do I need an appointment at CVS, Walgreens for a COVID shot?
CVS is offering COVID vaccines in Florida, within the FDA requirements and by appointment.
Walgreens is not currently offering COVID vaccines in Florida, but the Walgreens website states that they will be available “following the CDC’s official recommendation.”
“Check back soon for updates to help protect against COVID-19,” the Walgreens website says.
How much does each COVID vaccine cost?
The updated COVID vaccine is available at no cost to most people with health insurance at CVS. If your insurance doesn’t cover it or if you don’t have insurance, it costs between $224.99 and $249.99, according to CVS. Pricing is contingent upon which version of the vaccine you receive.
Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Do I need a prescription for a COVID shot now? What to know in Florida
Reporting by Lianna Norman, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Florida Today
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
