The Latest on the 2025-2026 COVID-19 Vaccine

We shared information on the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine in September. There have been some key changes since then, and we want to make sure you have the most up-to-date details.

What Changed?

In our September update, the 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccines were available without a prescription at all retail pharmacies for those 18-64 with an underlying condition and anyone 65 and older. 

Most recently, the CDC has accepted the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for the vaccine. With this update, the COVID-19 vaccine is now offered under Shared Clinical Decision-Making (SCDM) for most patients under age 65.

What is Shared Clinical Decision-Making (SCDM)?

SCDM vaccinations are individually based on a decision process between the healthcare clinician and the patient or parent/guardian. 

For patients 12 – 64 years, the COVID-19 vaccination is now available under SCDM—which considers individual risk factors, patient preference and clinician judgment. 

This includes patients with underlying conditions or increased exposure risk. The following are common scenarios for when SCDM would be used.  

• Healthcare workers may choose vaccination under SCDM if they have a higher exposure risk or prefer vaccination after a discussion with their physician.
• Children 6 months and older may receive the vaccine if it is requested by a parent and supported by clinical judgment.

SCDM may be performed by physicians, advanced practice providers (NPs and PAs), or pharmacists.

Where is the Vaccine Available?

Carilion Clinic Retail Pharmacy

COVID-19 vaccines for the 2025-2026 season are available at all Carilion Clinic Retail Pharmacy locations for patients 12 and up.

Carilion Practices

Some of our ambulatory practices are now stocking and administering the following COVID-19 vaccines. Practices with lower demand may refer patients to retail pharmacy partners.

• Pfizer (Comirnaty):
  • Patients 65 years and older
  • Patients 12–64 years under shared clinical decision-making
• Moderna (Spikevax):
  • Patients 6 months–11 years under shared clinical decision-making

The COVID-19 vaccine helps protect you from severe illness, hospitalization and death. It is especially important if you are ages 65 and older, are at high risk for severe COVID-19 or have never received a COVID-19 vaccine.

For more information on SCDM recommendations, visit the ACIP Shared Clinical Decision-Making page on the CDC website.