New COVID vaccine guidelines leave some North Carolinians in limbo
LELAND, NC (WWAY) — There are new federal guidelines for COVID vaccinations, and some members of the community say they’re concerned about not being allowed to get the shot.
We sat down with a Brunswick County woman who says she’s been left with more questions than answers.
“But that does leave me vulnerable still to getting COVID,” Cynthia Koehler said.
In September, the FDA approved covid vaccines for adults 65 or older and those considered high risk.
The CDC’s advisory committee on immunization practices (ACIP) recommended that eligibility now be based on ‘individual decision making’. Which means patients are encouraged to consult with a health care provider.
But for Leland resident Cynthia Koehler, who doesn’t meet the new criteria, getting her booster has been a struggle.
“Public health office does not have COVID vaccines at this time. My primary care physician said I am not eligible. I do have private insurance, and they said they would not pay for my COVID immunization at this point,” Koehler explained.
Koehler said she doesn’t just want to protect herself.
“I would like to do my part to try to protect the vulnerable people who are at very high risk for long term problems should they get COVID or any other disease,” Koehler informed.
Koehler then went to state officials and said she learned…
“Political expediency is taking precedence over public health and that’s very concerning,” Koehler said.
She is frustrated with the lack of clarity.
“Good guidance for our health and the health and well-being of the community and right now I think there’s too much conflicting information,” Koehler added.
But her husband, who is over 65, received his shot at a pharmacy under a new standing order.
Governor Josh Stein has directed the state Department of Health and Human Services to allow adults 65 and over to get vaccinated at a pharmacy without a prescription.
In a statement, NCDHHS said in part.
“NCDHHS is actively working with the NC Board of Pharmacy to explore all potential options to make sure that anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine in North Carolina can get one. We will continue to follow updates from our federal partners. “
A spokesperson with Brunswick County says they plan to have the “vaccine available sometime in October; however, this is dependent upon official guidance from CDC and NC Public Health leadership.” They encourage people asking for advice to check back at their website for the latest information.
They also added that; “Brunswick County continues to communicate and work with our NC Public Health partners to pursue our ability to administer the FDA approved COVID-19 vaccines as broadly and as soon as possible.”
We also reached out to the governor’s office, Senator Thom Tillis’ office and other medical professionals and haven’t heard back.
See the full statements that were sent to WWAY are below.
The full statement from NCDHHS is below.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective means available to prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death. They help protect the health of children and adults, their families, and the entire community from the spread of infectious disease. Flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines are available at a variety of locations including pharmacies, where many North Carolinians choose to receive their vaccines.
Right now, the standing orders remain in place, and as of Oct. 2, 2025, has helped more than 63,000 adults in the state receive the COVID-19 vaccine in North Carolina and eased the process for adults seeking vaccination in North Carolina. The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are federally approved and can be given to people who are six months and older. Children who are uninsured can be vaccinated at low or no cost through the Vaccines for Children program, which offers free vaccines to eligible children through 18 years of age.
NCDHHS is actively working with the NC Board of Pharmacy to explore all potential options to make sure that anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine in North Carolina can get one. We will continue to follow updates from our federal partners.”
A Novant Health spokesperson shared the statement below.
“Our clinics have COVID-19 vaccines and will be providing them to patients according to the updated guidelines, which emphasize shared clinical decision-making for all patients and prioritize vaccination for those age 65 and older or with chronic medical conditions. The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are authorized or approved for use in pediatric and adolescent age ranges under specific eligibility criteria. Patients with individual questions should contact their primary care provider.”
