Contributed Article/Courtesy ADHS
PHOENIX – Ahead of the upcoming respiratory season, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has issued statewide standing orders to support access to the 2026–2027 influenza and COVID-19 vaccines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all Arizonans. Arizonans who want to get their flu or COVID-19 vaccine should contact their health care provider or pharmacy to confirm availability.
In Arizona, qualified pharmacists can administer vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for international travel, or vaccines authorized by a prescription that includes a physician-issued public health standing order.
With uncertainty surrounding the schedule and timing of the next ACIP meeting, ADHS, in collaboration with the Arizona Board of Pharmacy, has developed statewide standing orders for the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines. These standing orders serve as a prescription enabling pharmacists and health care providers in Arizona to administer the vaccines to anyone who wishes to receive them.
“Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect our communities. The Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines have been proven safe and effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccines help us limit the spread of disease, reduce pressure on our healthcare system, and reduce costs,” said ADHS Public Health Medical Advisor Dr. Richard Carmona, who served as the 17th Surgeon General of the United States. “We have issued these standing orders to ensure safe and timely access to the vaccines in alignment with scientific and evidence-based guidance.”
The order does not require all pharmacies to offer vaccinations under the standing order or require insurance to cover vaccine administration. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs may depend on an individual’s insurance plan. Arizonans should check with their insurance plan and provider before their appointment.
You can find the standing orders on the ADHS website. More information about influenza, vaccination, and respiratory illness activity is available at azdhs.gov/influenza.
