Rising COVID cases and new vaccine rules spark confusion

As new COVID-19 cases climb across the country, hospitals are beginning to feel the strain

(NBC)- As new COVID-19 cases climb across the country, hospitals are beginning to feel the strain — and new vaccine guidance is adding to the confusion.

Last week, the FDA narrowed approvals for the COVID vaccine to adults 65 and older, as well as younger people with underlying health conditions. The change comes under the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in the Trump administration.

At a recent briefing, officials stressed that the decision does not affect overall vaccine availability. Still, access is shifting: CVS says prescriptions will be required for vaccinations in 13 states plus Washington, D.C. The company will not administer the vaccine at all in three states, but will continue to offer it elsewhere for those who qualify. Walgreens has not shared specifics but says it is prepared to provide vaccines where allowed.

The rollout comes amid turmoil at the CDC. Its director was abruptly fired last week by Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic. Four senior officials resigned in protest, citing political interference.

The American Academy of Pediatrics sharply criticized the new vaccine limits, calling them “deeply troubling” and stressing that broader vaccination is needed for children, even without underlying conditions. Data shows more than half of children hospitalized last season had no preexisting health issues.

With cases on the rise, doctors, families, and school leaders say the mixed messaging could not come at a worse time — just as the school year gets underway.