Michigan health officials advise early flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations for the fall season
Medical societies recommend that most Michigan residents receive flu shots in October and update COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations, especially those at higher risk, as the CDC has not issued new guidance this year.
Michigan health experts are urging residents to receive flu vaccinations as early as October, before influenza begins spreading widely, and to update protection against COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The American College of Emergency Physicians noted that while vaccines do not guarantee immunity, they reduce the risk of severe outcomes, similar to how seat belts lower injury risk in cars.
Because the CDC’s advisory panel is currently involved in litigation and has not released updated flu guidance, several professional groups—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 their own recommendations based on scientific evidence.
The societies agree that virtually everyone aged six months and older should be vaccinated against flu, with particular emphasis on adults 65 and older, pregnant women, young children, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems. Enhanced flu vaccines designed for seniors are available, and the FDA has approved an mRNA-based flu shot (Moderna’s mFlusiva) for people 50 and older, which a study found to be 27% more effective than standard shots for ages 50-64. A nasal spray vaccine (FluMist) is an option for those 2 to 49 who meet health criteria.
COVID-19 vaccination guidance remains similar to previous years: the FDA formally approves the shots for seniors and high-risk younger adults, but professional groups recommend that all adults receive a fall dose, with seniors receiving a second dose six months later as immunity wanes. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports vaccination for all children six months to 23 months and for older children with high-risk conditions. No evidence links COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy to miscarriage or other adverse outcomes.
RSV vaccination is advised as a single dose for adults 75 and older, adults 50-74 with increased risk, and immunocompromised individuals, as well as during late pregnancy to protect newborns. Pediatric societies also recommend a prophylactic medication for high-risk infants whose mothers were not vaccinated.
Vaccines are widely available at pediatric offices, clinics and pharmacies such as Walgreens, which offers flu and COVID-19 shots for ages three and up without a prescription. Medicare and most private insurers cover the fall vaccinations, though coverage for newer products like mFlusiva should be confirmed. Protection typically develops within two weeks after vaccination, and experts suggest timing the COVID-19 shot a few weeks before major events to ensure immunity.