Maryland Issues Independent Vaccine Guidance Ahead of Flu Season

Maryland's health department released its own set of vaccine recommendations for the upcoming respiratory virus season, invoking authority granted by the state’s Vax Act earlier this year. The guidance, which covers influenza, COVID-19, RSV and routine immunizations, follows recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists rather than federal health agencies.

"We recognize Marylanders are facing back-to-school germs and the upcoming respiratory virus season, all while navigating shifting vaccine guidance from the federal government," Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani said at a Thursday news conference.

State officials said the advice aims to encourage vaccination by the end of October for both children and adults. The department highlighted that insurers must cover the recommended shots and that pharmacists may administer them to anyone aged three and older without a prescription. Programs are in place to fund vaccines for uninsured or underinsured residents.

For children, the state advises a single dose of the annual flu vaccine from six months of age, an updated COVID-19 vaccine series beginning at six months, and a two-dose RSV regimen for high-risk infants. Routine vaccines such as polio, hepatitis and varicella are also recommended, with several required for school enrollment.

Adults are urged to stay current with tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis immunizations, especially during pregnancy, and to receive measles, mumps and rubella vaccines if they have never been vaccinated, given recent outbreaks.

"Vaccines remain essential to protecting ourselves, our families and our communities against preventable illnesses," Deputy Secretary for Public Health Dr. Meg Sullivan said, adding that individuals should consult their healthcare providers to determine appropriate vaccination schedules.