CAPITAL REGION, NY (WRGB) — Pharmacists in New York state will continue to administer the COVID-19 vaccine under an extended executive order from Gov. Hochul.
The order was signed on October 3rd and will be in place for at least 30 days.
In addition, Governor Hochul announced she is calling on the federal government to make the COVID-19 vaccine available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Currently, the vaccine isn’t available for states to order through the VFC program.
“I’ve been clear with New Yorkers that even as Washington continues its misguided campaign against science, I will always do what I can to ensure New Yorkers have access to the vaccines and information families need to make decisions about their health care — with no exceptions,” Governor Hochul said. “I will sign as many extensions of this executive order as I need to. We will always let science lead the way — not politics.”
New York is also working in coordination for a regional multi-state public health collaboration among Northeast states. The goal is to bring together public health leaders across the region to develop evidence-based recommendations and approaches on vaccination, disease surveillance, and emergency preparedness.
The collaborative also supports state public health laboratories in sharing resources and expertise to strengthen regional readiness.
Last month, Commissioner McDonald issued a standing order for the COVID vaccine that is still in effect, ensuring that pharmacists statewide can continue to provide timely and convenient access.
Commissioner McDonald and the Department of Health will continue to issue detailed guidance to support pharmacies, clinicians, and other vaccine administrators.