Illinois health officials recommend that all adults receive the COVID-19 vaccine this fall, contradicting recent guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Catrina Barker with Advantage News reported today, September 30. “Earlier this month, Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered the state to issue its own recommendations via executive order.”

According to their website, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) issued vaccination guidance for the fall respiratory virus season and a standing order for COVID-19 vaccination, following recommendations from the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee, guidance from medical specialty societies, and a review of Illinois and national respiratory illness data.

“IDPH’s standing order lets Illinois healthcare providers and pharmacies give COVID-19 vaccines following state guidelines, and requires most insurance plans, including federal, Affordable Care Act, and state-regulated plans, to cover the shots,” Barker wrote.

“At a time when the federal government is abdicating its responsibility to provide clear, science-informed guidance, Illinois is stepping up,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Illinois will continue to empower providers and families across our state with the information and access they need to guard against illness and disease.”