NC COVID vaccine rules changed — again. Are you eligible? What to know

North Carolina’s COVID-19 vaccine rules just shifted — again.

Prescriptions are no longer required to get the vaccine, after the measure was narrowly rejected in a 6-6 tie broken by the chair of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices at their meeting Friday, CBS News reported.

But a recent change has left many in North Carolina still unsure about who’s actually eligible.

Here’s what you need to know.

Can you get the COVID vaccine in NC?

Maybe. North Carolina health officials recently issued a standing order that allows adults 65 and older, as well as those with certain high-risk conditions, to get the COVID-19 vaccine at participating pharmacies without a prescription.

Dr. David Wohl, an infectious disease specialist at UNC Health, said most pharmacies in North Carolina will likely confirm whether you fall into one of those two groups before giving you the vaccine. If you don’t, you could be turned away.

Meanwhile, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has shifted its guidance. Instead of recommending the vaccine for all Americans, it now promotes “shared clinical decision making,” leaving questions about what that means for access going forward, NPR reported.

“My advice to people is to call your pharmacy and tell them your situation and see what they say,” Wohl said. “If they say “yes,” great. If not, you’ll probably have to call a clinic.”

How to avoid COVID infection

The CDC recommends these tips to lower your risk:

• Mask up: Respiratory viruses spread through the air, and masks add an extra layer of protection, especially in crowded indoor spaces during peak season.
• Keep vaccines up to date: While the CDC has lifted its broad recommendation, many health experts still encourage vaccination for most people ages 6 months and older.
• Act fast on treatment: Oral antivirals for flu and COVID-19 work best when started quickly, within 48 hours for flu and within five days for COVID-19, Weber said.
• Don’t forget the basics: Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often (or use sanitizer if needed), improve airflow by cracking a window and stay home when sick.

This story was originally published September 23, 2025 at 10:56 AM with the headline "NC COVID vaccine rules changed — again. Are you eligible? What to know."

Evan Moore

The Charlotte Observer

Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.