The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) issued Executive Directive No. 25-003, allowing anyone 6 months of age and older to receive a COVID-19 vaccine for the 2025-2026 respiratory illness season.
The Department also recommends that individuals discuss their risk factors for COVID-19 complications and the benefits of receiving the COVID-19 immunization with their health care provider to determine the best course for vaccination.
It also issued a Standing Order authorizing pharmacists in New Jersey to administer COVID-19 immunizations without a prescription. Together, these actions remove barriers to ensure that all individuals who wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine can do so in the state.
“At a time when COVID-19 cases are increasing across the country and as part of my Administration’s dedication to evidence-based public health action, I am committed to ensuring everyone in New Jersey who wants to receive a COVID-19 vaccination can receive a dose this fall from trusted health professionals,” said Governor Phil Murphy.
The actions come in time for respiratory virus season and amid increases in reported COVID-19 cases across the nation, particularly in the West and in the South. They also come after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently rescinded its Emergency Use Authorization for the COVID-19 vaccines and limited who can receive them.
“New Jersey is committed to defending the principles that safeguard our families and protect the health of our communities. This is about equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine, which has been proven to prevent serious illness and hospitalization,” said Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown. “Especially as we enter cold and flu season and as students head back to school, New Jerseyans are reminded to stay up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations.”
Signed by Deputy Commissioner of Public Health Services Novneet Sahu, M.D., MPA, a licensed physician, the Standing Order authorizes pharmacy professionals practicing in the state, in accordance with their scope of practice and applicable federal authority, to order and administer age-appropriate, FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines to eligible individuals.
The FDA recently narrowed approvals for the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine to only individuals 65 years and over or those with certain underlying medical conditions, though it did not define which conditions are considered high risk.
The changes, which were announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., bypassed the normal scientific review process, creating confusion and uncertainty, especially because they conflicted with previous CDC recommendations.
“This is about empowering residents to make decisions about their own health,” said Acting Commissioner Brown. “It’s also part of a statewide effort that includes coordinating with our sister agencies to protect access to vaccines for anyone who chooses to get one.”
The new vaccines are expected to be available in some locations in New Jersey now and statewide in the coming weeks. New Jerseyans can expect vaccines to be available from sites like primary care providers, chain pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers and other health care institutions.
“We thank the N.J. Department of Health for providing clear, science-based guidance to bring clarity to the vaccination conversation,” said New Jersey Hospital Association President and CEO Cathy Bennett. “Keeping our families healthy is a shared priority, and vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have. We encourage all New Jerseyans to speak with their health care providers about vaccination. They are your partners in making informed decisions about what’s best for you and your loved ones.”
More information about access to COVID-19 and other vaccines is available at: nj.gov/health/vaccines.
