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Vaccines
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
FDA approved updated COVID vaccines targeting XFG variant for high-risk groups.
Medical groups fill federal vacuum with fall vaccine guidance for flu, RSV, and COVID.
Background
As the U.S. enters the 2026 respiratory illness season, the FDA has approved updated COVID-19 vaccines from Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax-Sanofi, reformulated to target the circulating XFG variant. However, the CDC has not issued new guidelines this year, prompting medical groups like the American Medical Association and the Vaccine Integrity Project to step in with independent evidence reviews and recommendations for flu, RSV, and COVID vaccines.
How it unfolded
- Sep 1, 2026FDA approves updated COVID-19 vaccines targeting the XFG variant, with eligibility narrowed to older adults and those with underlying conditions.
- Sep 2, 2026Medical groups including the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association release guidance to fill the federal vacuum, recommending flu, RSV, and COVID vaccines for various age groups.
- Sep 3, 2026Vaccine Integrity Project and AMA review confirms vaccines reduce hospitalization and death, with no new safety concerns identified.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- FDA approved updated vaccines for high-risk groups, emphasizing their safety and effectiveness.
- Medical Groups
- Dr. Sarah Nosal of AAFP: 'Vaccines are one of the country's greatest success stories... help protect entire communities.'
- Expert
- Michael Osterholm of VIP: 'Immunization continues to be one of our best tools for preventing severe illness from respiratory viruses.'