Hatty Willmoth, Food & Nutrition Reporter

Across several U.S. states—including Idaho, Texas, Florida, and Michigan—local governments are increasingly diverging from federal COVID-19 vaccination guidance.

🛑 Idaho Counties Halt Booster Program

Southwest District Health, serving six counties in Idaho, voted on October 22 to end its COVID-19 booster program. The decision affects residents in Adams, Canyon, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, and Washington counties, despite CDC recommendations urging continued vaccination to prevent severe illness and death. Meeting records included an email from two citizens urging officials to “Say NO to COVID Shots,” questioning vaccine safety and accusing the CDC of self-interest.

⚠️ Florida Issues Advisory Against Boosters

The Florida Department of Health released updated guidance for the 2024–2025 season, advising against mRNA COVID-19 boosters. The statement cited a lack of human clinical trial data and questioned the efficacy of the latest vaccines against emerging variants. Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo formally recommended against their use.

🚫 Texas Restricts Vaccine Promotion

Texas lawmakers passed legislation barring the state health department from using public funds to promote or advertise COVID-19 vaccines during the 2024–2025 biennium. The move reflects growing political resistance to federal health messaging.

💸 Michigan Rejects COVID Grant

In Ottawa County, Michigan, commissioners declined a $900,000 state grant intended for public health emergency response. Board Chair Joe Moss labeled it a “COVID grant” and opposed its acceptance. Separately, a federal jury awarded $12 million to Lisa Domski, a Michigan woman fired in 2021 for refusing vaccination on religious grounds—ruling her dismissal as discriminatory.

🧪 CDC Wastewater Data

Recent CDC wastewater surveillance shows moderate levels of coronavirus in Idaho and Michigan, with minimal levels in Florida and Texas.