COVID-19 Vaccine Update: Prescriptions Now Required in Louisiana

As of September 2025, pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens require a doctor’s prescription for the updated COVID-19 vaccine but your local urgent care can help.

What Changed?

Starting this September, major pharmacies including CVS and Walgreens can no longer provide the updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine in Louisiana without a prescription.

Why It Matters

Pharmacies can no longer provide the updated COVID-19 shot without a prescription, which creates extra steps and delays.

The Urgent Care can:

• See you the same day — walk in whenever it works for you.
• Write the prescription on the spot so you don’t lose time.
• Help patients without a regular doctor get access quickly.
• Keep care affordable and convenient compared to other options.

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ

1. Do I need a prescription to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Louisiana?
Yes. Unless you are 65 or older, you now need a prescription to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine at pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens.

2. Can urgent care give me the prescription?
Absolutely. Our urgent care providers can evaluate you and provide a prescription the same day.

3. What if I don’t have a primary care doctor?
No problem. You don’t need a primary care provider to get the vaccine through urgent care. Walk in and we’ll take care of it.

4. Who is recommended to get the vaccine right now?
The FDA recommends the updated COVID-19 vaccine for people 65 and older, as well as younger people with health conditions that increase their risk of complications.

5. Why did pharmacies stop offering it without prescriptions?
Louisiana law only lets pharmacists give vaccines without a prescription if the CDC’s vaccine advisory panel (formerly ACIP) has officially recommended them. Since that hasn’t happened yet, a prescription is required.

6. Is it safe to get the updated vaccine?
Yes. The FDA has reviewed and approved the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine, and it has been shown to be safe and effective.

7. How do vaccines protect me?
They train your immune system to fight the virus, reducing risk of severe illness or death.

8. Can I get vaccinated if I’m pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive?
Yes. It’s recommended and protects both parent and baby.

9. Can kids get vaccinated?
Yes. Approved for children as young as 6 months.

10. Should I get vaccinated if I already had COVID‑19?
Yes. Wait about 3 months after infection.