The Latest Guidance on COVID-19, Flu, and RSV Vaccines

September 09, 2026

COVID-19, flu, and RSV season starts in just a few weeks.

This month, the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Vaccine Integrity Project released an evidence review about the safety and effectiveness of immunizations against influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.

“The updated collection of evidence, through June 2026, for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV immunizations continues to support both their safety and efficacy in the populations for which they are currently recommended,” the authors from the AMA and the Vaccine Integrity Project noted in this JAMA article.

 Here’s what you need to know:

• Background:  The release comes amid uncertainty about the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which typically provides routine immunization recommendations for this time of year alongside the national medical groups.
• Overall goal:  The AMA and the newly formed Vaccine Integrity Project are seeking to support evidence-based guidance for clinicians and patients ahead of the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season, while serving as a trusted voice across health care.
• By specialty:  The evidence rollout included updated guidance on the seasonal vaccines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (children); American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (pregnant population); the Infectious Diseases Society of America (immunocompromised); and the American Academy of Family Physicians.
• Flu shots: Seasonal flu vaccination remains recommended for everyone six months and older, with the "enhanced flu vaccine" recommended for older adults.
  • “Because of legal uncertainties and inquiries, the CDC states the recommendations for seasonal influenza vaccination from the July 2025 immunization schedule remain in effect for the 2026-2027 influenza season,” the agency noted in a website update.
• Quotable: “The 2026-2027 respiratory virus season arrives at a time when clinicians, patients, and policymakers continue to seek reliable, evidence-based information regarding the use of vaccines against COVID-19, influenza, and RSV,” the authors from the AMA and Vaccine Integrity Project noted. “As respiratory viruses remain significant causes of morbidity and mortality, the availability of timely and scientifically rigorous evidence reviews is essential for informed decision-making.”

The consolidated guidance across the national medical associations and a summary of the evidence review are available online.