It is a requirement by law that New York State insurance plans cover recommended vaccines for children. There is no law requiring coverage for adults, making it difficult for many adults to obtain the vaccines that are recommended for them.

 

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil, is available for women aged 19 through 26. This vaccine protects women against certain strains of the virus that cause cervical cancer and certain strains of the virus that cause genital warts. 

 

The pneumococcal polysaccharide (Pneumovax) vaccine is available for people aged 65 and older and adults aged 19 and older with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, alcoholism and people who smoke.

 

The tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is for adults aged 19 and older as a one time booster shot for added protection against pertussis. This is especially important for caregivers of infants under 6 months of age as infants are the most vulnerable for complications and death from pertussis. The Tdap vaccine available through this program was transferred to the birthing hospitals in Broome County for administration to post-partum mothers before they leave the hospital.

 

At this time, the herpes zoster (Zostavax) vaccine is not available through the program as previously anticipated. The vaccine manufacturer reports delays in the distribution of the vaccine.             

 

For additional information and for an appointment to obtain the HPV or Pneumovax vaccine you may contact the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.2870.

 

There is no charge for the vaccines, but a sliding scale fee for the administration of the vaccines may apply. We urge people to contact their insurance plans to determine if they are covered for these vaccines before making an appointment and reserve the vaccines offered through this program for people whom aren’t covered by insurance.