Medical groups offer sick season vaccine advice to fight flu and COVID this fall

Key Points:

• Leading U.S. medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, are urging people to get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines this fall to provide clear, science-based guidance amid federal advisory confusion.
• Flu vaccines are recommended for nearly everyone aged 6 months and older, with enhanced options available for seniors and a new mRNA flu vaccine approved for those 50 and older showing improved effectiveness.
• COVID-19 vaccines remain recommended especially for adults 65 and older and those with risk factors, with pediatricians advising vaccination for young children and pregnant women, emphasizing safety and effectiveness in preventing severe disease.
• RSV vaccination is advised for older adults, high-risk groups, and pregnant women to protect infants, addressing the potentially severe impact of the respiratory virus during fall and winter.
• Vaccinations are widely available at pharmacies and clinics, with Medicare and most private insurers covering costs through 2027; timing flu shots in October and COVID-19 shots ahead of high-risk events is recommended.