Medical groups are urging people to get updated flu and COVID-19 vaccinations this fall, amidst confusion caused by the Trump administration's changing advice. The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America have released vaccination guidelines for their patient populations. The recommendations are being posted on websites to provide clear, consistent, science-based guidance while the federal process is in flux.
Just about everyone should get vaccinated against flu, with the exception of those with chronic health problems. The vaccines don't block all flu infections but they do help prevent the worst outcomes, decreasing older adults' hospitalizations by 31%. Three 'enhanced' flu vaccines are designed to better protect seniors, and a new choice this year for people ages 50 and older is the mRNA flu vaccine mFlusiva, which was 27% more effective against symptomatic illness among 50- to 64-year-olds than a standard shot.
COVID-19 shots are recommended for all adults, especially seniors and those with other risk factors. The family physicians recommend all adults get a COVID-19 vaccination, especially seniors and those with other risk factors. Adults 65 and older should get a fall dose and then a second dose six months later, as immunity wanes over time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a COVID-19 shot for all children ages 6 months to 23 months, and for older kids with high-risk conditions.
The family physicians also recommend a one-time vaccination for adults 75 and older, people 50 to 74 who are at increased risk, or younger people with weak immune systems. It's also recommended during late pregnancy to protect infants born during RSV season. The pediatricians recommend a vaccine-like medication for high-risk infants.
The vaccines are better at preventing severe disease than mild cases, and common side effects are mild and temporary, such as sore arms, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, and mild fever. The flu vaccine is ideal in October, as influenza typically starts spreading in November, and the COVID-19 shot can be timed a few weeks ahead of an event you wouldn't want to miss because of illness.
