Imagine battling through the chilly months without a shield against surging waves of respiratory illnesses—it's a daunting prospect, isn't it? As winter approaches, the United States is bracing for an uptick in cases of COVID-19, influenza (commonly known as the flu), and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), potentially overwhelming our health systems and personal well-being. But here's where it gets controversial: while science points to vaccination as our strongest defense, recent shifts in official guidance have stirred debate over who really needs these shots. Stick around to uncover the key facts that could protect you and your loved ones this season.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has just released its annual outlook report, predicting that the 2025-26 respiratory virus season might mirror last year's peaks in hospitalizations from these three viruses. Public health experts emphasize that vaccination remains the cornerstone of protection, offering a simple yet powerful way to reduce the risks of severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. Dr. Hansa Bhargava, a seasoned pediatrician at Children's Health Care of Atlanta and an adjunct professor at Emory University, shared with ABC News that we're living in an era of incredible medical advancements. 'We're truly blessed to have these safeguards at our fingertips, particularly for our little ones,' she noted. 'It's crucial to follow your doctor's advice on vaccinations—not just for your own sake, but for your family's too. Even if full community protection, often called herd immunity, isn't achieved yet, getting vaccinated lowers the chances of illness spreading through your household.' Think of it like this: herd immunity is when enough people are immune, creating a protective barrier for everyone, including the unvaccinated. Without it, vulnerable family members, like elderly relatives or young children, face heightened dangers.
But here's where things heat up with some heated discussions: the CDC's evolving stance on COVID-19 vaccines has sparked widespread confusion and disagreement. Let's dive into the details so you can make informed choices.
COVID-19 Vaccines
In a major update earlier this month, the CDC endorsed changes from its vaccine advisory committee, moving away from universal recommendations for COVID-19 shots. Gone are the days when the CDC urged everyone aged 6 months and up to roll up their sleeves. Now, the guidance leans toward 'individual-based decision-making,' meaning it's a personal choice after consulting a healthcare professional—like a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This shift followed the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) decision to limit the marketing of updated COVID-19 vaccines to those 65 and older, or younger individuals with underlying health conditions that heighten their risk for severe disease.
For most people opting for vaccination, a single dose should suffice for the season. However, certain groups might qualify for more frequent shots—up to one every six months or two annually. This includes high-risk populations, those with weakened immune systems, and anyone 65 or older, as their bodies may need extra reinforcement to fend off serious complications.
And this is the part most people miss: despite the broader guidelines, the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advises vaccinating children from 6 months to 23 months because they're at greater risk of severe outcomes. Similarly, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists urges all pregnant women, those planning pregnancy, or nursing mothers to get vaccinated. This comes in response to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s decision to scale back recommendations for healthy kids and expectant mothers, which some experts argue has sown unnecessary doubt. Neal Smoller, a pharmacist running Village Apothecary in Woodstock, New York, expressed concern to ABC News: 'The administration's actions have created a lot of uncertainty and turmoil lately, overturning what used to be clear, consensus-driven advice from medical organizations. Now, recommendations are scattered, leaving many puzzled about what's right for them.'
Public health pros stress that COVID-19 hasn't vanished—it's still circulating heavily during fall and winter. Dr. William Schaffner, a preventive medicine expert at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, warned ABC News that the virus continues to cause significant sickness, with hospitals seeing patients who aren't up-to-date on their shots. 'Vaccination can significantly cut your chances of ending up hospitalized,' he said. 'It's a smart move to consider it for your protection.'
These vaccines are readily available at most pharmacies, doctor's offices, and health departments, and most insurance plans cover the cost, making it accessible for many.
Influenza Vaccines
The CDC stands firm on its recommendation that everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine each season. With various options tailored to age and health needs, there's something for almost everyone. For instance, standard-dose inactivated vaccines suit people as young as 6 months. If you're between 2 and 49, without certain medical conditions and not pregnant, you might opt for the nasal spray version, which is administered like a quick mist.
Adults 18 and over can choose a recombinant vaccine, made without eggs to avoid potential reactions for those with egg allergies. And for seniors 65 and older, a higher-dose option is available to bolster their defenses against severe flu complications.
Dosing depends on your age and history: Kids aged 6 months to 8 years who got two doses in previous seasons typically need just one now, while everyone 9 and up follows the same. Those in the younger group who haven't been vaccinated before, received only one dose previously, or have an unclear history might require two doses for full protection.
Dr. Schaffner highlights the vaccine's safety and effectiveness: 'Millions receive it worldwide yearly, with the main side effects being a sore arm or mild flu-like symptoms for a day or two—nothing compared to battling the real flu, which can lead to hospitalization or worse.'
Flu shots are easy to find at doctors' offices, pharmacies, and health departments, and insurance usually covers them.
RSV Vaccines
The CDC recommends RSV vaccines for adults 75 and older, and for those aged 50 to 74 with elevated risks for severe illness. Factors like chronic heart or lung conditions, a compromised immune system, or living in a nursing home increase vulnerability, as these can make RSV infections more dangerous.
Three FDA-approved RSV vaccines are on the market for adults. Plus, pregnant women are encouraged to get a maternal RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. This not only shields them but also passes protective antibodies to their newborns, offering up to six months of defense after birth. For babies whose mothers weren't vaccinated, a monoclonal antibody injection is available for those under 8 months and select children up to 19 months.
Dr. Bhargava stresses the importance: 'Safeguarding infants from RSV is paramount, so we urge expectant mothers to get vaccinated during that 32-to-36-week window.'
Unlike flu or COVID shots that need annual renewal, RSV vaccines aren't yearly—they're typically given in late summer or early fall, with protection lasting over a year. Dr. Schaffner adds, 'If you got one last year, you're likely still covered and don't need another right away.' Monoclonal antibody options, however, are seasonal.
Availability mirrors the others: at doctors' offices, pharmacies, and health departments, with insurance coverage in most cases.
ABC News' Dr. Ogechi Nwodim contributed to this report. Ogechi Nwodim, MD, MSc, is a resident physician in Emergency Medicine and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit.
So, with all this information, where do you stand on the evolving vaccine recommendations? Do you think the shift to personal choice empowers individuals or just adds to the chaos? Should certain groups, like young children or pregnant women, still be universally urged to vaccinate against COVID-19 despite the changes? Share your thoughts in the comments—let's discuss!
