U.S. Medical Groups Issue Flu, COVID Vaccine Guidance Independent of CDC

Four medical groups released recommendations for the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season ahead of the CDC. FatCamera/E+/Getty Images The CDC has not yet issued new COVID-19 or RSV recommendations for the 2026–2027 season and has instead carried over last year’s flu guidance. Four medical groups released their own recommendations in September, each covering a different population: children, adults, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. All four groups recommend a flu shot for everyone 6 months and older, and their COVID and RSV advice varies by age and risk. Vaccinations are available at major pharmacies across the United States. Pediatricians are turning to major medical organizations rather than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for guidance on vaccines for the fall and winter respiratory virus season, which runs from October through mid-May. That’s because the CDC’s vaccine advisory committee — the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) — hasn’t issued new COVID-19 or RSV recommendations this season. Instead, the agency has only carried over last year’s flu guidance. Despite the lack of CDC guidance, four top medical groups have …

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