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COVID Vaccine Orders Delayed for U.S. Kids
17 Sep
Summary
- States face delays obtaining COVID vaccines for children.
- CDC has not started accepting orders for COVID-19 shots.
- Demand for COVID boosters has fallen sharply.
As of September 17, 2026, U.S. states are encountering delays in obtaining COVID-19 vaccines for children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not initiated the order process for these crucial childhood immunizations. This situation impacts the Vaccines for Children program, which provides free vaccines to approximately half of the nation's youth.
The delay occurs as the administration scales back vaccine guidance, with the CDC no longer universally recommending COVID shots for all children and instead advising parents to consult physicians. Previously, the agency had recommended vaccination for everyone six months and older. Demand for COVID booster shots has notably decreased, with less than 10% of children aged six months to 17 receiving vaccines last year.
