Oregon makes COVID-19 vaccines easier to get

(SEPTEMBER 19, 2025) Oregon and three other West Coast states—Washington, California, and Hawaii—have announced new rules to make COVID-19 vaccines easier to get. The group of states is called the West Coast Health Alliance. They want everyone to have clear and safe guidance for vaccines.

The new rules say that anyone over six months old can get a COVID-19 vaccine if they want it. This is different from recent federal guidance, which recommended the vaccine only for people over 65 or with certain health problems. The West Coast Health Alliance wants people to be able to get the vaccine without confusion or delay.

In Oregon, many pharmacies used to ask for a doctor’s prescription before giving the COVID-19 vaccine. Now, pharmacists can give the vaccine to anyone who asks, without a prescription. Doctors, nurses, and physician assistants can also give vaccines safely under these new rules.

The state is making sure vaccines are covered by insurance. This includes Medicaid and other health plans. People will not have to pay extra like co-pays or deductibles for the COVID-19 vaccine.

The West Coast Health Alliance also gave new guidance for flu and RSV vaccines.

• • • Flu shots are recommended for everyone over six months old every year.

    • RSV vaccines are recommended for infants under 8 months, young children with risk factors, adults 50–74 with risk factors, and adults 75 and older.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health and Human Services (HHS) have been in turmoil recently. Some decisions from federal leaders caused confusion about who should get vaccinated. The West Coast Health Alliance wants to give clear, science-based guidance for families.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek said, "If you want to get vaccinated before respiratory virus season, you can in Oregon. Staying safe shouldn’t be hard or expensive."