ANNAPOLIS, MD — This respiratory virus season, Maryland is protecting vaccine access for Marylanders of all ages. As federal government uncertainty around vaccine policy has raised questions for many, Maryland public health officials will continue to use science-based guidance to be a trusted resource for people to keep themselves and their families safe and healthy.
Marylanders can continue to access vaccines at provider offices and pharmacies across the state as vaccine supply is available. Marylanders should talk to their health care provider about what vaccines are best for themselves and their families.
“The federal government’s rapid changes and unnecessary swirl around vaccine policy is harmful for Marylanders and all Americans, and could result in disastrous public health outcomes,” said Gov. Moore. “The health, safety and well-being of Marylanders and their loved ones are our North Star, and we will do everything in our power to ensure they have access to life-saving medicines like vaccines.”
Maryland is well-equipped to weather the federal-level complexities and challenges creating hurdles to access. To protect Marylanders’ access to vaccines, Governor Moore signed legislation to ensure that insurance providers—including Medicaid and private insurers—continue to cover the cost of all vaccines recommended by the ACIP as of December 31, 2024. Effective June 1, 2025, this protects against the withdrawal of vaccine coverage for a range of illnesses, not just COVID-19. In addition, in 2024, Governor Moore signed into law legislation to expand vaccination authority for pharmacists, allowing them to administer flu and COVID vaccines without a prescription to anyone 3 years and older.
For decades, vaccine recommendations have been made through deliberative, multi-factorial processes guided by science. While the standards and sources for federal vaccine guidance are now uncertain, Maryland maintains its commitment to careful and evidence-based decision-making for patient safety and disease prevention. Immunization policy is guided by multiple entities in Maryland, including the Maryland Department of Health, the Maryland Insurance Administration, and the Board of Pharmacy.
“Vaccines continue to be one of the most powerful public health tools for safeguarding our people and communities against disease,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani. “As potential changes to federal vaccine guidance loom, Maryland is working to ensure minimal interruptions to vaccine access. We continue to work closely with our partners and are actively exploring all options to protect our communities.”
Immunizations are available from most providers statewide, including pharmacists, who are authorized in Maryland to give vaccines without a prescription, in accordance with Maryland law. For COVID vaccines specifically, vaccines are available at healthcare providers and pharmacies across the state, although the specific assessment processes may vary based on location.
For children, school immunization requirements have not changed. COVID-19 vaccines are not currently required for students under this schedule, but schools may implement their own recommendations and requirements for attendance. Families should talk to their pediatrician about ensuring their children are up to date on all vaccines recommended for their child.
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