New York State has released its COVID-19 vaccine guidance for the upcoming 2025–26 season, with recommendations that mirror those of leading national and regional health organizations.
Governor Kathy Hochul said the state guidance recommends vaccination for:
- Children ages 6 months through 18 years
- All adults
- Individuals at higher risk, including those who are pregnant, lactating, or immunocompromised
The announcement comes ahead of a meeting of the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which will review national recommendations.
State officials noted that New York’s guidance is consistent with the Northeast Public Health Collaborative — a coalition of states and municipalities in the region — as well as recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Earlier this month, Hochul signed an executive order allowing pharmacists to prescribe and administer COVID-19 vaccines, a move she says will help maintain access for residents across the state
