BALTIMORE — On Sept. 19, 2025, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) announced new steps to make it easier for residents to get vaccines for COVID-19, flu and RSV during the 2025–2026 season, following recent federal policy changes that have affected vaccine guidance nationwide.
The department has issued a statewide standing order for COVID-19 vaccines, allowing qualified health professionals — such as pharmacists, doctors and nurses — to provide shots without needing an individual prescription. Maryland officials said the step was necessary after changes at the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) revised its process for vaccine recommendations, prompting states to set their own policies.
“The Maryland Department of Health is focused on using evidence-based science to make decisions that best serve the people of our state. Research continues to show that vaccines are an effective way to keep our communities healthy,” said Maryland Health Secretary Meena Seshamani, MD, PhD.
Seshamani also encouraged residents to talk with a provider when making personal health choices: “We encourage everyone to talk with a health care provider who can help assess your personal health care needs and determine if a vaccine is right for you.”
The Maryland clinical guidance for respiratory vaccines follows recommendations from leading medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Maryland also joined the bipartisan Northeast Public Health Collaborative, which brings states together to coordinate health efforts and strengthen access to vaccines and other care. Other members include Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont, along with New York City.
The collaborative’s purpose is to “work together in new ways — optimizing the use of shared resources, innovating and reimagining core services — to ensure trust in public health, respond to public health threats, advance community health and strengthen confidence in vaccines and science-based medicine,” according to its statement. The group focuses on providing science-based information and ensuring equitable access to vaccines, medications and services.
Residents can find the latest vaccine recommendations and access information on the Maryland Department of Health’s website at health.maryland.gov/covid/Pages/Vaccines.aspx.
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