09/04/2026
Recently someone asked me what I was going to do about fall vaccines for my family because she was worried and confused. I get it — things are confusing these days. I told her that myself, my husband, and my two kids would all be getting our annual flu and Covid vaccines like usual. She then asked me about the RSV vaccine — which isn’t available to everyone but is for certain groups (highlighted below). I told her that if I, or someone I loved, fell into one of those categories I’d get it too.
Now, there is even more data to reassure those who need it. Today Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) Vaccine Integrity Project with the American Medical Association (AMA) just published three evidence reviews on flu, COVID and RSV vaccines in JAMA. These reviews supported the updated recommendations made today by major medical societies including the AMA, , and .
Their analysis was independent, funded through philanthropy and peer reviewed.
Their findings support that the benefits of these vaccines outweigh their risks and no new safety concerns were identified.
This is importsnt because data show that these infections (RSV, flu and COVID) have consequences that include severe disease, hospitalization, cost of needing health care, loss of time at work and school and more.
Since we no longer can rely on our government for reliable vaccine information I am so grateful for organizations and medical societies that are stepping in and filling the gap to ensure recommendations reflect the best available evidence.
In case you’re wondering here’s what the current recommendations are. Outlined by vaccine type and group.
Recommendations for influenza:
Pregnancy — yearly dose. Just avoid the nasal flu vaccine.
Children 0-17 - yearly once 6mo and older. First dose at 6mo requires two doses given one month apart.
Adults 19-64 - yearly
Adults 65+ — yearly with a high dose flu vaccine if possible.
Immunocompromised — yearly for those over 6mo. Avoid nasal flu vaccine.
Recommendations for COVID:
Pregnancy — Yearly dose.
Children 0-17 - yearly for 6mo-23 mo. Other ages can also get if parents desire.
Adults 19-64 - yearly
Adults 65+ — Yearly with a second dose available 6mo later
Immunocompromised — yearly for those over 6mo.
Recommendations for RSV:
Pregnancy — one time dose in first eligible pregnancy if 32-36 weeks pregnant between Sept and March.
Children 0-17 - all infants under 8 mo are eligible for the antibody shot if mother was not vaccinated in pregnancy, and kids 8-18 mo in certain risk groups.
Adults 19-64 - one time dose for those 50-74 and high risk.
Adults 75+ — one time dose
Immunocompromised — one time dose for those over 18.
These vaccines work to reduce risk of complications if you do get infected, which is their primary goal. Their benefits outweigh any risks — and no news safety concerns were found
I know there is so much confusing information out these days so if you have more questions drop them below or dm me and I’ll cover them in future posts. Also remember to consult your clinician for specific medical advice.
 You can find the full evidence reviews out today in JAMA as well as the recommendations from the medical societies all linked in comments.
