With the U.S. Food and Drug Administration placing new restrictions on eligibility for the updated COVID-19 vaccine, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed an executive directive intended to ensure vaccines remain accessible ahead of cold and flu season.

Under the FDA’s updated guidance, eligibility is limited to individuals 65 and older and individuals ages 5 to 64 with at least one underlying health condition putting them at high risk for severe outcomes from the virus, where the vaccine was previously available to anyone six months or older.

However, the governor’s directive, issued Wednesday, instructs state agencies to identify and remove any barriers to accessing COVID-19 vaccines.

Specifically, the directive instructs departments to:

— Issue clear, accessible guidance to pharmacists, providers, and the public about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine;

— Issue guidance instructing pharmacists and providers to encourage prescribing and administering COVID-19 vaccines to patients;

— Identify, review, and remove barriers to vaccine access to ensure COVID-19 vaccines remain widely available in Michigan; and

— Ensure, to the extent possible, that all health insurance plans under the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ and the Department of Insurance and Financial Services’ regulatory authority – including Medicaid and insurance plans in the individual, small group, and large group markets – cover COVID-19 vaccines

“Cold, flu, and COVID-19 season are upon us. We all have a role to play in keeping our communities safe and healthy,” Whitmer said in a statement. “Today’s executive directive ensures Michiganders can get the COVID-19 vaccine. According to medical experts, vaccines remain the most effective way to stay healthy. I’m committed to providing Michiganders with the best options for their families.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Academy of Family Physicians have all issued their own guidance continuing to recommend the COVID-19 vaccine to protect against infection.

Research from the health department also found the 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine reduced the risk of COVID-19-associated emergency room and urgent care visits by 65-70% for children in the first two months after vaccination.

“It is incredibly important for Michiganders to get vaccinated this cold, flu, and COVID-19 season,” Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the state’s chief medical executive, said in a statement. “Protecting ourselves from cold, flu, and COVID-19 also protects our loved ones, our hospitals, health care workers, and so many more. With this executive directive, we’re connecting Michiganders with trusted resources from medical experts and helping more families get the safe and effective flu and COVID-19 vaccines. We encourage Michiganders to speak with their healthcare providers as they prepare for this season.”

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