NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsSeptember 2, 2026Hillsborough
Medical associations issue 2026-2027 respiratory vaccine recommendations
Major medical organizations have released independent vaccine guidance for the 2026-2027 flu, COVID, and RSV season, citing concerns over the credibility of federal health agencies. The new recommendations provide specific age-based guidance for flu and COVID shots and extend the RSV season window for pregnant women.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
Residents now have access to updated vaccine guidance from professional medical societies that differs from federal agency recommendations, potentially impacting vaccination schedules for children, pregnant women, and seniors.
Key Facts
- Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
- Specialty medical groups recommend COVID vaccines for children 6 months to 23 months old.
- For children ages 2 to 18, COVID vaccines are recommended for those at high risk of severe infection.
- The RSV season window for pregnant women has been extended to run from September through March.
- RSV vaccines are primarily recommended for newborns, pregnant women, and adults 75 and older.
- Medical experts recommend receiving the flu shot in mid-to-late October for optimal durability.
- Professional medical societies are issuing these recommendations independently of the federal government due to concerns regarding the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
Who's Mentioned
organizationCenters for Disease Control and Prevention“Federal agency whose guidance is being supplemented or challenged.”personAmesh Adalja“Senior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security providing expert comm”organizationAmerican Medical Association“Leading medical group issuing vaccine recommendations.”personRobert F. Kennedy Jr.“Anti-vaccine advocate cited as a factor in federal credibility concerns.”organizationAdvisory Committee on Immunization Practices“Federal advisory body criticized by medical experts.”