Governor Josh Stein announces increase in COVID-19 vaccine access

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolina leaders are expanding access to the COVID-19 vaccine after the FDA has limited who can get the new boosters.

"Right now, North Carolina is one of only a handful of states where people must get a prescription before they can get a shot at the pharmacy," Governor Josh Stein said in a press conference on Friday. "This is unnecessary red tape."

Major chains, such as CVS and Walgreens, scaled back on vaccine availability after state law required pharmacists to only administer the COVID-19 vaccine to patients over the age of 18 with a prescription.

Stein said there was a lot of uncertainty in the state on who can get the COVID-19 vaccine and who will be able to afford it. He hopes the standing orders will provide clarity.

"Dr. Greenblatt has issued these orders which allows pharmacies statewide to provide COVID-19 vaccines to senior citizens, as well as adults over 18 who meet the CDC's list of high-risk conditions without having to get a patient specific prescription," Stein said.

NCDHHS said most pharmacies already have the updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine available.

Officials said people should call their pharmacy of choice to see if they have COVID-19 vaccines available and make an appointment if needed.

Although some county health departments, such as the Durham County Department of Public Health are currently not providing the COVID-19 vaccine that may change in the near future.

ABC11 reached out to Durham County Department of Public Health who gave the following statement:

As of right now, we have not yet begun providing COVID-19 vaccines here in the Durham County Department of Public Health, but after today's announcement we do expect that we will be able to provide vaccines to eligible individuals 18 and older without a provider's prescription under Governor Stein's new order. We will share additional updates when we are able to begin scheduling appointments.