Getting your COVID-19 vaccine just got easier in North Carolina. New Standing Orders issued Sept. 12 mean that many adults can now get their shot at a local pharmacy without a prescription.
This change is especially important for:
- Adults 65 years and older
- Adults 18 and older who have a health condition that puts them at higher risk for severe COVID-19
These health conditions include things like:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Asthma
- Pregnancy
- Depression
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- Many others
Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s full list of risk factors.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccines last month. These Standing Orders align with those federal recommendations.
Why This Matters
Last year, COVID-like illness led to more than 120,000 hospital visits and more than 21,600 hospitalizations in NC.
Vaccines are one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family and your community. They help prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death.
“Health care providers and pharmacists recommend vaccination as a safe and effective tool to protect yourself and your community from COVID-19. This action ensures that North Carolinians most at risk who want protection from COVID-19 can get it as we enter the cold and flu season.”
– NC Governor Josh Stein
What This Means for You
- No prescription needed: If you’re 65 or older, or if you’re 18 or older with a qualifying health condition, you can get your COVID-19 vaccine at a pharmacy.
- Some pharmacies already have it in stock. CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Publix, Ingles, Food Lion, Costco, Sam’s Club and others have begun offering the updated vaccine. Some smaller local pharmacies have it in stock, too.
- Check before you go. Supplies may vary, so call ahead or check online to make sure your pharmacy has the updated vaccine available.
- Bring your insurance card if you have one. You’ll also be asked simple questions like your age or if you have a qualifying health condition.
For children ages 6 months to 17 years, talk with the child’s health care provider about the COVID-19 vaccine.
What Experts Are Saying
“Requiring an office visit to obtain a prescription to receive the COVID-19 vaccine is an administrative barrier for patients, providers and pharmacies. Vaccinations against seasonal respiratory viruses, including flu, RSV and COVID, are especially important and the right choice for those at higher risk of severe viral respiratory disease.”
– Dev Sangvai, NCDHHS Secretary
Health organizations across the state agree the Standing Orders will make it easier for people to get protected:
“Easier access for patients and reduced administrative obstacles for providers will make more vaccinations possible for underserved populations who face geographic, economic or transportation challenges in obtaining preventative care.”
– Dr. Wesley Ibazebo, President, Old North State Medical Society“By removing access barriers to this crucial vaccine, we are facilitating the health of our patients and our communities.”
– Dr. Marion McCrary, Governor, American College of Physicians NC chapter
Next Steps
You can now get the updated COVID-19 vaccine at a nearby pharmacy without a prescription if:
- You’re 65 or older
- You’re 18 or older and have a qualifying health condition
These orders makes it more convenient to protect yourself this respiratory virus season.
Call your pharmacy today to check availability of the updated COVID-19 vaccine and make an appointment if needed.