Continued Access to COVID-19 Vaccines in New Jersey

September 18, 2025

Dear Rutgers Community,

With COVID-19 cases expected to rise again as we approach winter, we strongly encourage you to get vaccinated to protect yourself and our community from severe illness.

The New Jersey Department of Health has confirmed that the new COVID-19 vaccines are available in New Jersey to everyone 6 months and older for the 2025–2026 season. You can get vaccinated at your regular provider or at many local pharmacies, and no prescription is required.

Further, state regulators have issued guidance to New Jersey health insurance carriers to continue covering both the vaccine and its administration with no cost-sharing. If you have questions about coverage or encounter any issues, contact your insurance provider.

While Rutgers is not requiring the COVID-19 vaccine, we continue to recommend it strongly to keep you and those around you healthy. Thank you for doing your part to keep our community safe. We will share additional guidance soon about flu vaccination opportunities as part of our ongoing seasonal health communications.

In good health,

Vicente Gracias, MD
Senior Vice Chancellor for Clinical Affairs, Rutgers Health
Vice President for Health Affairs, Rutgers University

Brian L. Strom, MD, MPH
Chancellor, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Rutgers University