Utah families are at risk of losing access to life-saving COVID-19 vaccines.

CVS just announced it will stop offering COVID-19 vaccinations in 16 states, including Utah—even for patients who qualify under FDA guidelines. That means no in-store access for thousands of Utahns who remain vulnerable to serious illness, including seniors, cancer patients, and people with chronic health conditions. CVS is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the state, and for many rural and suburban communities, it’s the most convenient—or only—option.

This isn’t a supply shortage. The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for adults 65 and older, as well as younger people with health conditions that make the virus more dangerous. These shots are proven tools to prevent severe illness and hospitalization. But instead of providing them, CVS is withholding vaccinations in Utah, citing “regulatory barriers.” In reality, pharmacies could offer shots to eligible patients with prescriptions. Choosing not to do so is putting lives at risk.

Utah already faces challenges in healthcare access, especially in rural counties where residents drive hours to reach a provider. Cutting off vaccines in pharmacies makes that access gap even worse. And for vulnerable Utahns, delayed protection can mean the difference between recovery and hospitalization—or worse.

We call on Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Utah Department of Health and Human Services Executive Director Tracy Gruber, and CVS Health leadership to immediately reinstate in-store COVID-19 vaccinations in Utah and remove any regulatory or corporate barriers standing in the way.

Utahns deserve protection—not red tape. Vaccines should not depend on zip codes, prescriptions, or corporate decisions. If CVS will not provide this basic public health service, state officials must ensure alternatives are available immediately.

The CDC’s advisers will meet soon to review vaccine guidance. But Utahns need access now. We cannot wait for a national meeting while families here face another winter without protection.

Sign if you believe Utah must protect vaccine access for all eligible residents before it’s too late.