State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald will receive both the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine and this season’s influenza vaccine on Wednesday, September 24 at Lindsay Drug Co. in Troy, New York. The event is scheduled for 12:45 p.m. and will include opportunities for interviews and photo or video coverage.
Dr. McDonald plans to discuss the importance of getting vaccinated before the start of respiratory illness season. “Avoiding illness by getting the flu and COVID-19 shots remains the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce the risk of severe illness for children and adults,” he said. He also noted that it is safe to receive both vaccines at the same time.
Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed an Executive Order that allows pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines to individuals aged three years and older, making it easier for eligible New Yorkers to access vaccination services. The Department of Health recommends calling ahead to pharmacies to confirm vaccine availability.
Dr. McDonald has issued standing orders permitting eligible New Yorkers to receive COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines at any pharmacy without needing a separate prescription from their physician. The seasonal influenza vaccine is also available at pharmacies without a prescription for those over age two.
Influenza season typically runs from October through May, with peak activity between December and February. Influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 are all contagious respiratory viral infections with similar symptoms, which can make them difficult to distinguish from one another. People with chronic health conditions, young children, elderly individuals, pregnant persons, or those with compromised immune systems face higher risks of serious complications from these illnesses.
For more information about vaccine availability or event details, contact Erin Clary, Deputy Communications Director at (518) 603-0295 or Cadence Acquaviva, Senior Public Information Officer at (518) 918-6578.
