Key facts
- Leading U.S. medical groups have issued new guidelines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations.
- The recommendations aim to provide clear, science-based guidance amidst confusion from previous federal advice.
- Most individuals aged 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine.
- COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for higher-risk individuals, with broader recommendations for all adults and specific groups of children.
- Enhanced flu vaccines are available for seniors, including a new mRNA option for those 50 and older.
- RSV vaccination is recommended for older adults and pregnant individuals to protect infants.
Leading U.S. medical groups have released updated vaccination guidelines for flu, COVID-19, and RSV, aiming to provide clear, science-based advice amid public confusion. The recommendations come as updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines become available and follow concerns about changing advice from the Trump administration. The American Medical Association is centralizing these recommendations and supporting evidence on a new website, SpreadTheFacts.org.
For influenza, the groups agree that nearly everyone aged 6 months and older should get vaccinated. They highlight that flu is particularly dangerous for individuals 65 and older, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic health conditions. Enhanced flu vaccines are recommended for seniors, with a new mRNA option available for those aged 50 and older. A nasal spray option is also available for certain individuals aged 2 to 49.
Regarding COVID-19, while federal agencies have formally approved vaccines primarily for those 65 and older or younger individuals with underlying health conditions, family physicians recommend all adults receive a vaccination, especially seniors and those at higher risk. Adults 65 and older are advised to get a fall dose and a second dose six months later. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends COVID-19 shots for children aged 6 months to 23 months and older children with high-risk conditions, also supporting vaccination for any child whose parent desires it. Vaccination during pregnancy is deemed safe and beneficial.
For RSV, vaccination is recommended for adults 75 and older, those aged 50 to 74 with increased risk, and younger individuals with compromised immune systems. Pregnant individuals are advised to get vaccinated to protect infants born during RSV season. A vaccine-like medication is also recommended for high-risk infants.
Common side effects for both flu and COVID-19 vaccines are mild and temporary. Vaccinations are widely available at pharmacies, pediatricians' offices, and clinics, with Medicare and most private insurers covering the costs. October is considered an ideal time for flu vaccination, while COVID-19 vaccination can be timed to precede important events.