NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Monday that the new COVID-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 season is now available across New York.
She urged eligible New Yorkers, especially those 65 and older, individuals at risk of severe complications, or those who have not yet been vaccinated, to get the shot as students return to school and ahead of the respiratory illness season.
"Now is the time to get the new COVID-19 vaccine to help protect your family and your community," Governor Hochul said. "As in years’ past, we’re putting health first and making it easy for all eligible New Yorkers to get the new vaccine at any pharmacy statewide."
Hochul also announced a standing order from the Commissioner. This allows all eligible New Yorkers to receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine at any pharmacy statewide without needing a prescription from their individual health care provider.
The availability of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines follows the FDA’s recent approval of the Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed last week that vaccine shipments are underway to health care providers and pharmacies. Major retail chains like CVS and Walgreens are now accepting appointments, with some locations offering walk-in availability.
"Getting a COVID-19 vaccine is the most effective protection against being admitted to a hospital or suffering from Long COVID, so I’m once again encouraging all those eligible to prioritize their health and get vaccinated," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "As we enter the fall season, when respiratory viruses circulate, New Yorkers should get the vaccine to protect themselves from COVID-19 so they can risk less and live well."