Rhode Island Gov. McKee Gets COVID-19 And Flu Shots

Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee got his COVID-19 and flu shots Wednesday, according to a media release from his office.

The governor was joined by Director of Health Dr. Jerry Larkin in getting vaccinated "and to remind Rhode Islanders about the critical importance of vaccinations to keeping our communities healthy and safe," the release said.

Related: CDC Updates Guidance On COVID Vaccine: What To Know In RI

"We are working to ensure that the public health turmoil in Washington does not affect the ability of Rhode Islanders to access crucial vaccines that help protect families and communities in our state," McKee said in the release.

Related: New COVID-19 Vaccine Restrictions: What It Means For MA Residents

"Rhode Island is one of the best vaccinated states in the country because we prioritize data and science, and because we know that vaccines save lives," he said.

At McKee's direction, the Rhode Island Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner issued a bulletin last month requiring insurance coverage of COVID-19 vaccination for patients 6 months of age and older, according to the release.

Related: How Shifting Vaccine Policy Could Affect RI School-Age Children

The Rhode Island Department of Health, also at McKee's direction, "issued a standing order empowering pharmacists to administer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine in Rhode Island to patients 3 years of age and older," the release said.

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"Everyone 6 months of age and older in Rhode Island can and should get vaccinated against the flu," Larkin said in the release.

"For most Rhode Islanders, vaccination against COVID-19 is just as important," Larkin said. "The vaccines are available for everyone, regardless of your insurance status or ability to pay."

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