Gov. Josh Green has issued an emergency proclamation to ensure that COVID-19 vaccines remain accessible in Hawaii, after recent federal decisions created uncertainty over who could receive the shots.
The move comes in response to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Aug. 27 decision to limit approval of Moderna’s vaccine to adults 65 and older and people as young as 6 months who have at least one underlying medical condition. That ruling excluded otherwise healthy children and adults under 65.
Earlier this month, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended the vaccine for anyone over 6 months old but only under “shared clinical decision-making.” The added step has raised questions among pharmacists about whether they can still administer the vaccine without additional approvals.
Green’s proclamation allows Hawaii pharmacists to continue providing the COVID-19 vaccine to anyone age 3 and older without a doctor’s prescription. The order also aligns the state with recommendations from the West Coast Health Alliance, a partnership with California, Oregon and Washington that has emphasized consistent, science-based health guidance.
“This proclamation is about protecting lives and keeping our communities safe. COVID-19 is still with us and vaccines remain one of our most powerful tools to prevent severe illness and avoid hospitalizations,” Green said. “Cutting off access for healthy children and adults would put Hawaii families at risk. As a physician, father and Governor, I have to stand up for science and evidence-based protection for our local families, and we will always act to make sure care remains accessible to everyone who needs it.”
State health officials said the proclamation is especially important for residents in rural and neighbor island communities, where pharmacies often serve as the primary point of access for vaccinations. Without it, many people could face delays caused by wait times for physician appointments or reduced availability of care.
Green added that Hawaii would continue to rely on evidence-based science while acting locally when federal guidance falls short.
“Our administration will always prioritize the health and safety of Hawaii’s people. This proclamation helps ensure that everyone in Hawaii who wants a COVID-19 vaccine can get one, and I applaud our local health plans for continuing to cover these vaccinations at no cost to patients.”
The proclamation took effect Tuesday and will remain in place through Nov. 22 unless it is terminated or replaced earlier.
Source: The Garden Island
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