WASHINGTON — COVID-19 vaccines are staying accessible in D.C. at least for the time being. City council passed emergency legislation Wednesday that allows D.C. residents to get vaccines without a prescription from local pharmacies.
After new COVID shots were approved only for those 65 and older or with a prescription, some pharmacies said they would not be able to administer them without a prescription from a doctor. On Wednesday, the council passed the Community Health Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025, reversing that guidance for D.C. residents.
“The 2025-2026 respiratory disease season begins in the fall and will likely cause an increase in COVID-19, influenza, and RSV cases in the District of Columbia. These respiratory diseases can each be mitigated through safe and effective immunizations,” the bill reads…