Four leading U.S. medical groups issued fall vaccination guidance on Wednesday, urging updated flu and COVID-19 shots to counter confusion as federal recommendations remain in flux.
The groups said they stepped in because Trump health officials had pulled back on some longstanding vaccine advice despite no new scientific evidence, and the CDC had not issued fresh fall guidance.
Most people age 6 months and older should get a flu shot, the groups said, citing harsh recent seasons and data showing vaccination cut older adults’ flu hospitalizations by 31%.
COVID advice was broader than current FDA labeling for high-risk groups: family physicians urged all adults to get a shot, pediatrics backed vaccination for infants 6 to 23 months and high-risk children, and obstetricians urged vaccination during pregnancy.
The guidance also pointed to practical choices and timing — including a new mRNA flu shot for people 50 and older, October flu vaccination, and RSV protection for seniors, high-risk adults, pregnant women and vulnerable infants.