Benton County residents seeking the latest COVID-19 vaccine may face new hurdles as federal guidelines have significantly restricted eligibility for the 2025-26 formulation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the updated COVID-19 vaccine on Aug. 27 but limited eligibility to adults 65 and older and individuals with high-risk health conditions — a notable change from previous years when vaccines were more broadly available to the general public.
However, several major medical organizations have issued their own expanded recommendations beyond the FDA’s restrictions. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports vaccination for children, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends it for pregnant individuals, and the American Academy for Family Physicians endorses vaccines for adults under 65…