Rhode Island Prioritizes Vaccination Efforts to Combat COVID-19 and Flu

Strategic Insights -

Governor Dan McKee and Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD, received their flu and COVID-19 shots to promote vaccination in Rhode Island, emphasizing the state's commitment to ensuring access to crucial vaccines. Rhode Island has made significant efforts to prioritize data and science, making it one of the best vaccinated states in the country. The state has issued a bulletin requiring insurance coverage of COVID-19 vaccination for patients 6 months of age and older and a standing order empowering pharmacists to administer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine.

Key Takeaways:

  • Governor Dan McKee and Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD, received their flu and COVID-19 shots to promote vaccination.
  • Rhode Island is prioritizing data and science to ensure access to crucial vaccines, making it one of the best vaccinated states in the country.
  • The state has issued a bulletin requiring insurance coverage of COVID-19 vaccination for patients 6 months of age and older.
  • A standing order was issued empowering pharmacists to administer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine in Rhode Island to patients 3 years of age and older.
  • Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at hundreds of locations throughout Rhode Island, including pharmacies, health centers, school and community clinics, and primary care professionals' offices.
  • Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu shot every year and COVID-19 shots, with specific guidelines for different age groups.
  • Vaccination is particularly important for people 65 years of age and older and those at higher risk for severe illness from flu or COVID-19.
  • Rhode Island's recommendations for the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine align with major medical organizations and regional health coalitions.

Statistics:

  • The state has issued a bulletin requiring insurance coverage of COVID-19 vaccination for patients 6 months of age and older.
  • A standing order was issued empowering pharmacists to administer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine in Rhode Island to patients 3 years of age and older.
  • Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at hundreds of locations throughout Rhode Island.
  • By the end of November, hundreds of school-located vaccination clinics will be held at schools throughout the state.
  • Vaccination is particularly important for people 65 years of age and older and those at higher risk for severe illness from flu or COVID-19.

Sources:

  • Department of Health, Government of Rhode Island
  • health.ri.gov/seasonal-vaccines
  • health.ri.gov/estacionales-vacunas