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.

October 16, 2025 | From City of New Orleans

The New Orleans Health Department Offers Five New Locations for SNAP Application Assistance

Today, the New Orleans Health Department is announcing its partnership with the Louisiana Department of Health as a Gold Level community partner. This designation allows NOHD to help residents and patients at our clinics with their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps. Residents will also be able to receive assistance with simplified applications for the elderly (ESAP), cash assistance for low-income families with children (FITAP), and cash assistance for eligible children who reside with a relative who is not their parent (KCSP applications).

Food insecurity remains a serious challenge across Orleans Parish, with many residents struggling to access nutritious, affordable food. Through this partnership, NOHD will help connect more families to the benefits they need to stay healthy and thrive.

“Hunger and food insecurity are far too common in our city,” said Jeanie Donovan, Deputy Director of Population Health and Disease Prevention at the New Orleans Health Department. “It is more essential than ever that we help residents connect with the public benefits and services for which they are eligible.”

As a Gold Level community partner, NOHD will be able to provide SNAP applications and informational materials, computer access, guidance on how to complete the application, and confidential spaces where residents can both securely submit their information and also access additional services such as WIC, Healthcare for the Homeless, and more. NOHD also provides Medicaid application assistance at various locations. A link is provided below.

Assistance will be available at the following city sites:

  • AP Sanchez Service Center (1616 Fats Domino Ave, 70117): First Friday of each month, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • City Hall (1300 Perdido St, 70112): Second Monday of each month, 10 am-12 pm.
  • Allie Mae Williams Service Center (2020 Jackson Ave, 70113): Second Thursday of each month, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • Edna Pilsbury Health Center (2222 Simon Bolivar Ave, 70113): Third Tuesday of each month, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • New Orleans East WIC Clinic (10001 Lake Forest Blvd, 70127): Last Wednesday of each month, 1 a.m. - 3 p.m.

To schedule an appointment or inquire about assistance with SNAP or Medicaid applications, please visit the New Orleans Health Department webpage at nola.gov/health . Walk-ins are welcome, but please be aware that there may be a wait time, as individuals with scheduled appointments will be prioritized.

For questions about this service, please contact Luke Felty at luke.felty@nola.gov.

If you are unable to visit an NOHD site, you can call VIALINK by dialing 211 or 504-269-2673 and request the nearest application assistance site near you or visit their website (https://vialink.org/).

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