Health experts advise early flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations this fall
Doctors' groups recommend that most people receive flu, COVID-19 and RSV shots as soon as possible, noting that protection develops within two weeks and helps reduce severe illness and hospitalizations.
Medical societies including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Infectious Diseases Society of America have issued guidance urging broad uptake of flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines ahead of the winter respiratory-virus season.
The flu shot is recommended for everyone six months and older, with particular emphasis on seniors, pregnant women, young children and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease. Data from the Vaccine Integrity Project show that flu vaccination lowered hospitalizations among adults 65 and older by 31% last season.
For seniors, three enhanced flu vaccines are available, and the FDA has approved an mRNA-based flu shot, Moderna’s mFlusiva, which a study found to be 27% more effective against symptomatic illness in adults 50-64 than a standard vaccine. A nasal spray (FluMist) remains an option for healthy people aged 2-49.
COVID-19 boosters are now formally approved for adults 65 and older and for younger individuals with qualifying health conditions, though physicians continue to recommend vaccination for all adults. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports COVID-19 vaccination for all children six months and older, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises pregnant patients that current evidence does not link vaccination to miscarriage.
RSV vaccination is advised for adults 75 and older, for those 50-74 at increased risk, and for immunocompromised individuals, with additional recommendations for vaccination during late pregnancy to protect newborns.
Experts suggest October as the optimal month for flu vaccination, noting that immunity typically develops within two weeks. COVID-19 cases tend to rise in late summer and again around the holidays, so timing of the booster can be aligned with upcoming events.
Vaccines are widely available at pharmacies, pediatric offices and other clinics, and most private insurers and Medicare cover the fall shots through at least 2027. Recipients should verify coverage for newer products such as mFlusiva.