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To: Maine Immunization Program Providers
From: Maine Immunization Program
Subject: COVID-19 Pediatric Vaccine Access
Date: October 3, 2024
As a requirement to participating in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, providers must offer all recommended routine VFC vaccines, including pediatric COVID-19 vaccine, in accordance with the CDC Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule.
It has come to our attention that not all enrolled provider locations have COVID-19 vaccine on hand or a plan in place to provide access to COVID-19 vaccines for all children ages 6 months and older. As a VFC enrolled provider site, it is required to have COVID-19 vaccines on hand or a workplan with partnering locations to ensure the vaccine is made available upon request, so the child is not turned away.
It is important to ensure all staff members, both clerical and clinical, convey a consistent message when parents request COVID-19 vaccine for their children. Additionally, having a clear workplan in place with partnering locations will ensure that COVID-19 vaccine is readily accessible for all children ages 6 months and older.
To uphold your provider agreement with the Maine Immunization, providers must have COVID-19 available for all pediatric patients 6 months and older, including those with MaineCare who may go without being vaccinated if they are turned away at their doctor’s office.
At this time, pharmacies are only carrying COVID-19 vaccine for those aged 12 years and older. Currently, the PREP Act is still in place which allows for MaineCare patients to receive ACIP recommended vaccines at the pharmacy at no charge to the patient. However, on December 31, 2024, the PREP Act will end and MaineCare will no longer reimburse for vaccinations given at a pharmacy.
The following COVID-19 vaccine presentations are available for order:
- Spikevax 12+ - NDC # 80777-0110-93
- Moderna 6m-11yrs – NDC # 80777-0291-80
- Pfizer 5-11yrs – NDC # 59267-4438-02
- Pfizer 6m-4yrs – NDC # 59267-4426-02
- Comirnaty 12+ - NDC # - 00069-2432-10
- Novavax 12+ - NDC # - 80631-0107-10
For the most up to date COVID-19 vaccine clinical guidance, please reference Clinical Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccination | CDC
For questions, contact the Maine Immunization Program at ImmunizeME.DHHS@maine.gov or call 207-287-3746.
Thank you for your continued commitment to keeping Mainer’s safe from vaccine preventable disease.
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