[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and First Lady Gwen Walz today received their COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations, underscoring that Minnesotans will continue to have the freedom to access life-saving vaccines, even as the Trump administration and Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. create confusion with conflicting federal guidance. Photos from the event are available on Flickr.

“Our message today is simple: Minnesotans will continue to have the freedom to receive their vaccines,” said Governor Walz. “Home to the Mayo Clinic and some of the world’s foremost experts on health, in Minnesota we are guided by science and we believe in medical expertise. In Minnesota, your health decisions are between you and your doctor, not politicians in Washington."

“Vaccines are one of our best tools for preventing severe illness and death from diseases like COVID-19 and flu,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham. “We don’t know yet how bad the respiratory season might be, so taking action now before it picks up is important. Talk to your health care provider about any and all vaccines recommended for you and your family.” 

In September, Governor Walz signed an executive order directing the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) to expand efforts to safeguard vaccine access. Under this order, Minnesota issued a standing protocol empowering pharmacists to provide COVID-19 vaccines to people 3 years and older, reducing barriers and ensuring broader availability.

COVID-19 and flu vaccines are available at many locations across Minnesota, including health care providers, local clinics, and pharmacies. Minnesotans can visit Minnesota Department of Health Vaccine Access for Minnesotans for information about vaccine locations and eligibility.