US federal vaccine program delays access to updated Covid-19 shots for children

Updated Covid-19 vaccines for the 2026-27 respiratory virus season are facing delays in availability through the Vaccines for Children program. While the Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccines three weeks ago, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not yet enabled states and jurisdictions to order them through this federal initiative.

The Vaccines for Children program provides no-cost routine immunizations to approximately half of children in the United States, specifically those who are uninsured, underinsured, or otherwise unable to afford them.

While retail pharmacies like CVS have begun receiving adult and some pediatric doses, the lack of availability through the federal program creates a gap in access. Without insurance coverage, a pediatric Covid-19 vaccine could cost approximately $149.99 out-of-pocket. Dr. Michelle Fiscus of the Association of Immunization Managers noted that while delays between commercial and government availability are common, the current situation prevents some parents from choosing to protect their children due to cost and availability disparities.