News & Announcements

COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines Now Available and Easy to Access
in the New Orleans Metro Area

New Orleans, LA (October 7, 2025) The New Orleans Health Department (NOHD) announced today that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially approved flu vaccines for ages 6 months and up and yesterday expanded that approval to place the COVID-19 vaccinations on the recommended schedule for 2025-2026.  Older adults and those at risk should check their eligibility for RSV, pneumonia, and shingles vaccines.

“These updated recommendations make it easier for everyone to protect themselves and their families from flu and COVID-19,” said Dr. Jennifer Avegno, Health Director of the New Orleans Health Department. “Vaccines are safe, free for most people, and available right here in our community.”

“Walgreens is proud to offer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccines in Louisiana to eligible individuals ages 3 and older, no prescription required," said Brian Strong, Director of Immunizations, Walgreens. “Individuals and families can walk into their nearest Walgreens pharmacy or schedule an appointment by visiting Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine, through the Walgreens app, texting “Flu” to 66879, or by calling 1-800-WALGREENS.”

According to CDC recommendations, adults are encouraged to consult with their doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine if the COVID-19 vaccine is right for them. Parents seeking immunizations for children under 18 are encouraged to contact their pediatrician or a participating pharmacy for assistance. It is important to note that prescriptions are no longer required to access COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies or vaccination events, and insurance coverage continues to ensure no out-of-pocket cost for eligible individuals.

Residents can get vaccinated at local clinics, pharmacies, or community events. To find locations or a free vaccine event, visit the NOHD website at nola.gov/vaccines.

September 22, 2025 | From City of New Orleans

AAP Statement on White House Autism Announcement

The following is a statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):

“Today’s White House event on autism was filled with dangerous claims and misleading information that sends a confusing message to parents and expecting parents and does a disservice to autistic individuals.  

“Studies have repeatedly found no credible link between life-saving childhood vaccines and autism. This research, in many countries, involving thousands of individuals, has spanned multiple decades. Any effort to misrepresent sound, strong science poses a threat to the health of children.    

“Pediatricians know firsthand that children’s immune systems perform better after vaccination against serious, contagious diseases like polio, measles, whooping cough and Hepatitis B. Spacing out or delaying vaccines means children will not have immunity against these diseases at times when they are most at risk.”  

“Regarding autism, we know it is complex, highly variable and increasingly linked to genetics. There is no single, root cause of autism, and there is no single medication that will give every autistic child or adult what they need. Individualized plans, often involving a combination of developmental, behavioral, educational and social-relational strategies, can help improve outcomes that are meaningful to individuals and families. We also need and welcome additional investments in federally funded research to better support families of autistic children.” 

“Families who have questions about their child’s medications, autism care plans or other health care should consult with their pediatrician or health care provider. The AAP remains committed to providing accurate information to guide pediatricians and parents in making decisions that are family centered and individualized to meet every child’s needs and goals.”