Arizona officials issue order making COVID-19 vaccine available to anybody who wants it

PHOENIX – Arizona health officials issued a standing order last week to make the COVID-19 vaccine available to anybody in the state who wants it.

The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) edict serves as a prescription that individuals ages 6 months and older can use to get the shot from an Arizona pharmacist or health care provider.

Earlier this month, Gov. Katie Hobbs issued an executive order directing ADHS and the State Board of Pharmacy to ensure widespread vaccine access ahead of the 2025-2026 respiratory disease season.

“The health and safety of Arizonans are my top priority. That’s why I took action to expand access to COVID-19 vaccines and give Arizonans who want one the ability to get one,” Hobbs said in a press release Friday. “I applaud the Department of Health Services for working quickly to ensure broad access to the COVID vaccine and for continuing their efforts to educate Arizona about the public health benefits of vaccines.”

Federal guidance on COVID-19 vaccines changing

Arizona is among a growing list of states taking action to ensure vaccine access as federal guidance evolves under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for seniors but narrowed their use for younger adults and children to those with at least one high-risk health condition.

On Friday, Kennedy’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisers declined to recommend them, instead leaving the choice up to individuals.

CDC data released in June shows the virus resulted in 32,000 to 51,000 U.S. deaths and more than 250,000 hospitalizations last fall and winter. Most at risk for hospitalization are seniors and young children, especially those who were unvaccinated.

“The COVID-19 vaccine has proven to be safe and effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death,” Dr. Richard Carmona, ADHS public health medical advisor, said in Friday’s press release. “Vaccines help us limit the spread of disease and reduce pressure on our health care system.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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