WASHINGTON — Major pharmacy chains are restricting access to updated COVID-19 vaccines across more than a dozen states, creating new barriers for Americans seeking the shots.

CVS Pharmacy will not provide the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccines at locations in several states without a prescription, the company confirmed Friday. In a statement, CVS Health said it expects to receive shipments of the newly authorized vaccines in the coming days but will begin offering them only in states where it is allowed under current regulations.

"Based on the current regulatory environment, CVS Pharmacy is offering FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccinations" in 34 states, the company said.

In 13 states and Washington, D.C., patients may still receive the updated vaccines but only if they obtain a prescription

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