Minnesota health officials advise COVID-19 and flu vaccinations ahead of fall respiratory season
State health agencies and medical groups recommend updated COVID-19 shots for adults and young children, and an annual flu vaccine for everyone, as clinics and pharmacies prepare for increased virus activity this fall.
Minnesota clinics and pharmacies are beginning to offer the latest COVID-19 boosters and the seasonal influenza vaccine as the state enters the respiratory-virus season. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved four updated COVID-19 vaccines in late August, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has not issued specific guidance on target groups, instead urging individuals to discuss vaccination with their health-care provider.
Major medical organizations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Pediatrics, along with the Minnesota Department of Health and Children’s Minnesota, continue to recommend vaccination for most residents. The state’s health officials say the vaccines are safe and remain the most effective means of preventing severe illness.
The American Academy of Family Physicians advises all adults 19 and older to receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine for the 2026-27 season, with particular emphasis on pregnant people, adults 65 and older, and those at higher risk. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the vaccine for children 6 through 23 months, noting that while many infections are mild, the virus can cause serious complications such as heart inflammation and long-COVID.
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends an annual flu shot for everyone six months and older. Adults 65 and older are encouraged to ask about enhanced flu vaccines that may produce a stronger immune response.
COVID-19 hospitalizations remain low nationally but are beginning to rise, a trend typical for late summer and early fall. Health officials anticipate concurrent circulation of COVID-19, influenza and RSV through the winter months.
"Now is actually a really great time to get vaccinated before it's circulating and before we see that increase," said Kate Kelly, vaccines program coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Health. Kelly added that updated COVID-19 vaccines are arriving at local sites and advised residents to call ahead to confirm availability and consult their health-care provider about the appropriate product.
Kelly suggested adults receive a flu shot in October to maintain protection through the peak season, but noted that vaccination in November or December is still beneficial. She said flu cases in Minnesota typically peak in January and February.
Dr. Gigi Chawla of Children’s Minnesota explained that it takes two to four weeks for the body to develop immunity after vaccination and emphasized that immunizing individuals also helps protect vulnerable community members.
Vaccines are available at pharmacies, health-care clinics and local health departments. Pharmacies generally cannot vaccinate children under three, so parents should coordinate with primary-care providers. Most insurance plans cover the cost of recommended vaccines; uninsured adults can access free or low-cost clinics, and the Vaccines for Children program provides no-cost flu shots for uninsured minors.