Due to multiple factors including content scraping and copyright infringement, some of our articles will now require a free account to signup, and our in-depth reporting will require a paid subscription. Please click here to learn more.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced an extension of liability protections for COVID-19 countermeasures under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act. This measure, effective from January 1, 2025, prolongs the declaration’s coverage through December 31, 2029, as the nation continues to prepare for potential public health emergencies related to the virus.
To read the corresponding opinion article regarding this story, please visit: As the Fed Extends COVID Vaccine Legal Protections, Some of Us Still Suffering
Continues after this brief message…
Did you know? Paid supporters get a reduced ad experience!
Thank you for supporting Radio Free Hub City!
The PREP Act provides liability immunity to manufacturers, distributors, and healthcare professionals involved in the development and administration of medical countermeasures, such as vaccines, diagnostics, and treatments for COVID-19. It applies broadly to individuals who receive these countermeasures and includes provisions to address gaps in access for underserved populations. The declaration, first issued in 2020 at the height of the pandemic, has undergone multiple amendments to expand its scope and maintain preparedness.
Among the extended provisions are protections for pharmacists and qualified pharmacy staff administering COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccines, as well as COVID-19 tests and treatments. These measures ensure continuity of access to critical healthcare services, particularly in areas with limited medical resources. According to HHS, nearly 90% of Americans live within five miles of a pharmacy, emphasizing the role of these facilities in public health efforts.
Article continues after these messages…
In a time where local news media coverage seems to be disappearing, your contribution is more important than ever. While our in-depth articles are for supporting members only, we won’t put our core news content behind a paywall, because we believe access to news should be democratized, instead of access for only those who can afford it.
But keeping the lights on and taking the fight to local accountability takes resources. Your monthly subscription directly funds our public records requests, website hosting, and time spent analyzing local government and events so you don’t have to.
We are the only newsroom in Washington County with facts-first focus, locally owned, independent, while keeping our core news content free. Will you help us keep it that way?
The declaration also incorporates updates reflecting lessons learned during the pandemic, such as the inclusion of telehealth services for administering vaccines and treatments. It preempts state laws that may hinder the implementation of these measures.
To read the corresponding opinion article regarding this story, please visit: As the Fed Extends COVID Vaccine Legal Protections, Some of Us Still Suffering
Associated documents for this story are available in our Public Information Archive.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors.
Do you believe we got something wrong? Please read our publishing standards and corrections policy.
Video Spotlight
Did you know? Supporters get a reduced ad experience!
Sponsored Articles
Get daily and breaking news for Washington County, MD area from Radio Free Hub City. Sign up with your email today!
Paid supporters have a reduced ad experience!
Discover more from Radio Free Hub City
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.



