DoomsdaysCW#District13 looks to take care of its own health care needs!
Despite new federal guidelines, #JanetMills looks to expand #Covid19 vaccine availability in #Maine
BY Susan Cover Maine
PUBLISHED 2:19 PM ET Sep. 08, 2025
WATERVILLE — "Gov. Janet Mills said Monday she’s working to ensure that Mainers who want to get a COVID-19 vaccination at local pharmacies without a prescription can get one.
" 'We’re working with the attorney general’s office in Maine to clarify whether we can issue a standing order and take measures like that,' she told reporters. 'We want to make sure everyone who wants to get a shot can get one.'
"She expects more information to come out this week.
"Last week, Massachusetts Gov. #MauraHealey took steps to ensure that vaccines, including those for COVID, flu and RSV, remain readily available and covered by insurance.
"Like Maine, Massachusetts is one of 16 states prohibited from offering COVID vaccines at pharmacies without a prescription following new federal guidelines restricting who is eligible for the shot.
"The federal guidelines issued Aug. 27 authorize vaccines for those 65 and older or those with at least one underlying medical condition. Others need a prescription to get the vaccine.
"In response, the Massachusetts public health commissioner issued an order Sept. 3 allowing pharmacies to continue to provide COVID shots to those 5 and older, according to Healey’s office. That prompted CVS and Walgreens pharmacies in Massachusetts to work toward making appointments available, the governor’s office said in a press release.
"Healey’s office also noted that it is 'leading efforts to create a public health collaboration with states in #NewEngland and across the #Northeast committed to safeguarding public health as the federal government backs away from its responsibilities.'
"Mills said in Maine, officials need to ensure pharmacists and physicians are protected from 'any liability' that might arise from the discrepancy between state and federal guidelines.
"After attending a Rotary meeting in Waterville, Mills mentioned the group’s efforts to eradicate polio worldwide. As she mulls a run for U.S. Senate — a decision she’ll announce in November — she said changes to the federal public health system are one of her top concerns.
" 'The current state of affairs, the state of flux in the public health system nationally is of great concern right this minute,' she said.
Catherine is not complacent