Flu vaccines are arriving at doctors’ offices and pharmacies for the 2026–27 season. If you’ve been putting off making an appointment, this is a good time to check what’s available near you. And while you’re at it, you can get an updated Covid-19 vaccine, too.
The American Medical Association has consolidated the current flu, COVID-19, and RSV immunization recommendations into a single PDF sheet specifying various groups. The recommendations are consolidated from from the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America into a single printable reference for doctors and patients. Note that for most populations, they recommend an annual Covid-19 vaccine, too. Here is the downloadable one-page vaccine recommendation sheet.
The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older who does not have a medical reason to avoid it. The American Academy of Pediatrics also recommends vaccination for children. The Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends this season’s flu vaccine for people with weakened immune systems and recommends that their close contacts stay vaccinated, too. Adults 65 and older should ask about an enhanced flu vaccine.
Why get vaccinated every year?
Flu viruses change, and protection can fade over time. This season’s vaccines have been updated to target the flu strains expected to circulate. Wile a flu vaccine can’t guarantee that you won’t get sick, it can reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and other complications – particularly for high-risk group such as the elderly and the immunocompromised. It also matters because it helps to help protect people around you, especially infants too young to be vaccinated and those at greater risk of severe illness.
When and Where to Get Flu Vaccines
For most people, September or October is a good time to get vaccinated, Seasonal flu.viruses begin to circulate in the fall and can last through May. Generally, peak flu activity occurs between December and February.
Where can you get one? If you have questions about the vaccine that’s right for you, your clinician or pharmacist can help you make a plan. Start with your primary care office, your child’s pediatrician, an in-network pharmacy, a local health department, or a workplace clinic. Large pharmacy chains such as Walgreens and CVS offer flu shots nationwide via appointments and walk-ins. The vaccines are generally free for most who have insurance, but check ahead to be sure.Also check to see if these chains offer incentives, such as discount coupons. You can also check vaccine availability with local pharmacies.
If you get the flu …
Should you get the flu, stay home until it passes. Flu shares symptoms with other respiratory illnesses so you might want to take an at-home Covid-19 test. If you are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or living with a chronic condition, contact a health care professional promptly to ask whether testing or treatment is appropriate.
Additional Resources
- CDC on Influenza (Flu)
- 5 Common Flu Shot Myths Debunked
- National Council on Aging: What Older Adults Need to Know During Flu Season
- Check to see if your children are eligible for free vaccines
- National Foundation for Infectious Diseases: Flu (Influenza)
- FDA Approves 4 Updated COVID-19 Vaccines for 2026–2027 Season