Federal Vaccine Programs Face Ordering Delay

Several U.S. states are facing delays in obtaining COVID-19 vaccines for children through federally funded immunization programs as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not yet opened the ordering process for the current vaccination season, according to a Reuters report citing the Wall Street Journal.

The delay affects the federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which provides vaccines to a large share of children across the country. The Section 317 program, which supports vaccination for uninsured and underinsured adults, is also affected.

Pharmacies Have Commercial Supplies

COVID-19 vaccines are already available through commercial pharmacies for many people with health insurance. Vaccine manufacturers have also started shipping doses to the commercial market.

However, families relying on government-supported vaccination programs may face different access timelines while federal procurement arrangements are finalized.

Fall Vaccination Season Draws Attention

The issue comes as the United States enters the fall respiratory-virus season. Health officials and medical organizations continue to monitor COVID-19 vaccination rates, seasonal transmission and access to updated vaccines.

The delay has also renewed attention on vaccine availability for children and adults who depend on federally funded programs for preventive healthcare. Fewer than 10% of U.S. children ages 6 months through 17 received a COVID-19 vaccine during the previous vaccination cycle, according to the reporting.

The CDC is continuing to finalize procurement details, meaning the availability timeline through federal programs could change as the fall vaccination campaign progresses.