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US medical groups urge flu and Covid shots
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
US medical groups urge flu and Covid shots as CDC guidance lags.
Doctors fill the void, advising October shots for best protection.
Background
Typically, the CDC launches a fall campaign recommending seasonal immunizations like flu and Covid shots. This year, the CDC has not issued new recommendations for Covid-19 or RSV, and only updated flu guidance to follow last year's. Medical groups are stepping in to advise the public.
How it unfolded
- Aug 2026FDA approved the first mRNA flu vaccine for older adults.
- Sep 1, 2026The Independent reports on expert advice for flu shot timing, noting last year's shots prevented 10 million illnesses.
- Sep 2, 2026CNN reports doctors are filling a void left by CDC on vaccine guidance, with CDC updating flu guidance to follow last year's recommendations.
Who’s saying what
- Expert
- Dr. Stephen Thacker recommends getting flu shot in October, no later than November, depending on regional surge.
- Official
- CDC states recommendations from July 2025 remain in effect for 2026-2027 flu season, but has not issued new Covid or RSV guidance.
Still unverified
CDC has not yet published guidance for 2026 flu season; expert believes most recommendations will remain same as last year.