TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Department of Health is recommending that everyone 6 months and older receive a COVID-19 vaccine for the 2026-27 respiratory illness season and has issued a standing order allowing pharmacists to administer the vaccine without a prescription to anyone age 3 and older.
The department announced the actions as respiratory virus season begins, saying they are intended to remove barriers for people who want to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in New Jersey. The state also issued a separate executive directive adopting vaccination schedule recommendations for all ages.
“With today’s actions, we are giving our communities the tools they need to prioritize their well-being during this respiratory virus season,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “Vaccines are an immensely powerful tool for keeping our communities safe and protecting against serious illness. While the federal government is working to undermine public health by casting doubt on vaccines designed to keep our families healthy, my Administration is ensuring that residents do not face barriers to accessing critical health care services.”
Under the executive directive signed by state Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard Washington, anyone 6 months and older can receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The department also recommends that people discuss their risk factors for COVID-19 complications and the benefits of vaccination with their health care provider.
“Respiratory virus season is upon us, and staying up to date on your respiratory virus vaccines—including the latest COVID-19, flu, and RSV shots—is the best way to keep from getting seriously sick or hospitalized. Today’s actions are designed to ensure every community in New Jersey can get the protection of the latest COVID-19 vaccine,” said Dr. Raynard Washington, New Jersey Health Commissioner. “With kids heading back to school and cold weather on its way to send everyone indoors, I encourage every New Jerseyan to make an appointment today to stay up to date on their vaccines.”
The standing order serves as a prescription for anyone age 3 or older to receive an authorized COVID-19 vaccine at a pharmacy without obtaining an individual prescription. It authorizes eligible pharmacy professionals, including pharmacists, pharmacy interns, pharmacy externs and pharmacy technicians, to order and administer age-appropriate, FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines within their scope of practice and applicable federal authority.
“It’s important to get updated vaccines for COVID-19 and flu each year, because they’re designed to protect you from the strains of the virus expected to be circulating in the fall and winter,” said Deputy Commissioner Dr. Sahu. “That gives you the best chance to protect yourself from getting seriously ill and missing out on work, school, social events, and holiday gatherings.”
The updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered during the same visit, along with an RSV vaccine for eligible patients.
For the 2026-27 season, the state recommends an updated COVID-19 vaccine for all children ages 6 to 23 months and for children ages 2 to 18 in certain risk groups or if desired. Annual vaccination is also recommended for adults ages 19 to 64, pregnant patients, immunocompromised people 6 months and older and health care personnel. Adults 65 and older are recommended to receive the annual updated vaccine followed by a second dose six months later.
The department also recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. RSV vaccination recommendations vary by age and risk factors, including recommendations for certain infants and children, pregnant patients, adults ages 50 to 74 at increased risk of severe RSV and all adults 75 and older.
Recommended immunizations are covered by most health insurance plans, according to the department. Programs are also available to provide no-cost or lower-cost vaccines to eligible children and adults who are uninsured or underinsured.
