MDH said it will follow updated recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for the 2025–26 COVID-19 vaccine season.
The groups advise that all people aged 6 months and older should have access to vaccination, with stronger recommendations for children under 2, pregnant individuals, adults 65 and older, and people with underlying health conditions.
“This is a unique moment where vaccine information from federal health leaders leaves important information gaps for Minnesotans,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “These independent medical associations have all looked at the science and concluded that COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and important for people across the lifespan.”
Expanding access
To reduce barriers, MDH issued a standing order allowing pharmacists to provide COVID-19 vaccines broadly. Pharmacists can vaccinate children as young as three, offering families more options outside traditional clinics.
Governor Tim Walz also signed a Sept. 8 executive order directing MDH and the Department of Commerce to coordinate with health plans and providers to ensure vaccine supply and coverage.
What the CDC recommends
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend COVID-19 vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, though its current guidance emphasizes individualized decision-making for some groups.
According to the agency:
- Adults 18 and older should receive the updated 2024–25 or 2025–26 COVID-19 vaccine, with priority for people over 65 and those at higher risk.
- Vaccination is recommended during pregnancy and for those breastfeeding or planning pregnancy.
- People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may require additional doses.
- Individuals who recently had COVID-19 may delay vaccination for about three months.
- The Food and Drug Administration authorized a new JN.1-lineage monovalent vaccine for the 2025–26 season to better match circulating variants.
Vaccines available in Minnesota
COVID-19 vaccines are arriving at clinics and pharmacies across the state, with supply expected to increase in the coming weeks. MDH recommends that residents:
- Call clinics or pharmacies to confirm availability, particularly for pediatric doses.
- Contact insurance providers with questions about coverage.
- Use state programs that provide low- or no-cost vaccines for children and vaccination clinics for uninsured adults.
- Ask health care providers about other recommended vaccines, including flu and RSV, which can be administered alongside COVID-19 vaccination.
“Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine and help protect people of all ages,” said MDH State Epidemiologist Dr. Ruth Lynfield. “We encourage people to talk to their health care provider about all of the vaccines that are recommended for them.”
