Maryland Issues Its Own Vaccine Guidance as Federal Policies Shift

Maryland has released its own vaccines guidance for the first time, establishing state recommendations for children and adults as federal vaccine policies continue to change. The new guidance covers COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines and is intended to give Maryland residents a clearer reference point.

The recommendations come under a new state law known as the VAX Act, which gives Maryland’s health secretary authority to establish the state’s own immunization recommendations.

The state said the guidance does not create new vaccine mandates. Requirements for vaccines needed to attend Maryland schools also remain unchanged.

What Maryland Recommends

For COVID-19, Maryland recommends an updated vaccine for adults and for children ages 6 months through 23 months. For older children, the state’s recommendations consider individual risk as well as whether a family wants the vaccine.

Maryland also continues to recommend an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. RSV vaccines remain recommended for certain age groups and people with specific risk factors.

State Public Health Officer Dr. Meg Sullivan said the recommendations are designed to provide residents with one clear source of guidance amid changes at the federal level. She said Maryland’s recommendations are aligned with those of major medical organizations.

Vaccine Access and Coverage

The new state guidance also includes provisions intended to protect access to recommended vaccines. Certain state-regulated health plans are required to cover Maryland-recommended vaccines without out-of-pocket costs.

Pharmacists can also administer recommended vaccines to people ages 3 and older without a prescription.

Maryland is among several states that have established their own vaccine guidance as federal policies have shifted. California, Oregon and Hawaii have also taken similar steps.

Residents Urged to Plan Ahead

State health officials said COVID-19, flu and RSV levels are currently low in Maryland but are expected to increase as respiratory virus season approaches.

Residents are encouraged to start considering their vaccination plans now, with officials recommending that people ideally receive their seasonal shots by the end of October.

Health officials also emphasized that residents should discuss vaccination decisions with their doctors, particularly as guidance from federal authorities, states and medical organizations can differ.