The short answer
Flu shot 2026 basics: the CDC still recommends a flu shot for nearly everyone 6 months and older, ideally in September or October, but getting one later in the season still helps. For 2026-27, the CDC also recommends a COVID-19 vaccine for all adults 18 and older and a one-time RSV vaccine for adults 75 and older (or 50 to 74 with certain health risks). You can get all three at the same visit.
- Flu: every year, everyone 6 months and older; adults 65 and older should prefer a high-dose, adjuvanted or recombinant shot.
- COVID-19: recommended for adults 18 and older; for most children it is a shared decision with a clinician.
- RSV: a single dose, not yearly, for adults 75 and older and for at-risk adults 50 to 74; infants are protected by a maternal vaccine or an antibody shot.
- Cost: most private plans, Medicare and Medicaid cover these vaccines at no cost when you use an in-network provider.
6 months+
Age for a yearly flu shot
135 million
Projected US flu vaccine doses
18+
Adults recommended a 2026-27 COVID shot
75+
Age when every adult should get an RSV shot
In this article
Every fall, three respiratory viruses start circulating at the same time in the US: influenza (flu), COVID-19 (the illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus) and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus, a common cause of colds that can turn serious in babies and older adults). So the flu shot 2026 question usually comes with two more: should you also get a COVID shot, and are you old enough or at enough risk for an RSV vaccine?
This season, the answer also depends on where the guidance comes from. In September 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted interim guidance saying that, “because of legal uncertainties and inquiries,” the flu and COVID-19 recommendations from its July 2025 immunization schedule remain in effect for 2026-27. Meanwhile, major medical groups such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) published their own recommendations. This guide sticks to what the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) say today and notes where professional groups add to it.
Who Should Get a Flu Shot in 2026 and Other Fall Vaccines?
Almost everyone should get a flu shot. The flu shot 2026 recommendation covers everyone 6 months and older, while COVID and RSV recommendations depend on your age, health and pregnancy status. The table below summarizes current CDC guidance for the 2026-27 respiratory season.
| Group | Flu | COVID-19 (2026-27) | RSV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children 6 months to 17 years | Yes, every year (some kids 6 months to 8 years need 2 doses) | Shared decision with a clinician; recommended if moderately or severely immunocompromised | Infants under 8 months: antibody shot if mom was not vaccinated; some high-risk kids 8 to 19 months |
| Adults 18 to 49 | Yes, every year | Recommended | Not routinely |
| Adults 50 to 74 | Yes, every year | Recommended | One dose if at increased risk of severe RSV |
| Adults 75 and older | Yes; prefer high-dose, adjuvanted or recombinant | Recommended | One dose for everyone |
| Pregnant people | Yes, any trimester (shot, not nasal spray) | Talk with your provider; ACOG strongly recommends it | Abrysvo at 32 to 36 weeks, September to January, or baby gets an antibody |
In addition, the CDC lists several groups at higher risk of flu complications: children 6 through 59 months, adults 50 and older, pregnant people and anyone who lives with or cares for someone at high risk. If you fall into one of these groups, getting vaccinated early in the season matters even more.
Flu Shot 2026-27: Timing, Types and What Is New
The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older without a medical reason to skip it, ideally given in September or October. However, the agency also says vaccination should continue throughout the season as long as flu viruses are circulating, so late October or November is still worthwhile.
When is the best time for a flu shot 2026 appointment?
For most people, September or October is the sweet spot, according to the CDC’s 2026-27 flu vaccine guidance. July and August are generally too early, especially for adults 65 and older, because protection may fade before the season ends. That said, the CDC notes that early vaccination can make sense for people in the third trimester of pregnancy and for children who need two doses. If you missed the fall window, it is not too late: a flu shot 2026 appointment in November or December still offers protection.
What changed in the 2026-27 flu vaccine?
All three virus strains in the flu shot 2026-27 formula were updated. According to the CDC’s 2026-2027 flu season page, the FDA picked the new strains on March 13, 2026, including an update aimed at the influenza A(H3N2) “subclade K” virus that spread widely last season. Every US flu vaccine this year is trivalent, meaning it targets three strains. Manufacturers project as many as 135 million doses, 99% of the supply is thimerosal-free, and about 27% is non-egg based.
Which flu shot 2026 option is best for adults 65 and older?
The CDC says adults 65 and older should preferably get one of three types: a high-dose shot (Fluzone High-Dose), an adjuvanted shot (Fluad) or a recombinant shot (Flublok). If none of these is available, any age-appropriate flu vaccine is better than skipping it.
| Flu vaccine type | Example | Approved ages | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard-dose shot | Several brands | Most 6 months and older | The usual option for most people |
| Cell-based shot | Flucelvax | 6 months and older | Not grown in eggs |
| High-dose shot | Fluzone High-Dose | 65 and older | Four times the antigen of a regular shot |
| Adjuvanted shot | Fluad | 65 and older | Contains an ingredient that boosts immune response |
| Recombinant shot | Flublok | 9 and older | No virus or eggs; three times the standard antigen |
| Nasal spray | FluMist | 2 through 49 | Live, weakened virus; not for pregnancy or weakened immune systems; FDA-approved for self-use at 18 to 49 |
| mRNA shot (new) | mFLUSIVA | 50 and older | FDA-approved Aug. 5, 2026; not named in CDC’s interim guidance |
Is there an mRNA flu shot in 2026?
Yes, the flu shot 2026 lineup includes one. The FDA approved Moderna’s mFLUSIVA on August 5, 2026, as the first mRNA flu vaccine, for adults 50 and older. Approval for people 65 and older came through the accelerated pathway, which means a follow-up study must confirm its benefit in that age group. Notably, the CDC’s 2026-27 interim guidance does not list it among the preferred options for adults 65 and older, so ask your pharmacist or doctor whether it makes sense for you.
Can I get a flu shot if I have an egg allergy?
Yes. The CDC says people 6 months and older with an egg allergy may receive any flu vaccine, egg-based or not, that is appropriate for their age and health. Still, tell the person giving the shot about any severe allergic reaction you have had to a past vaccine.
Who Should Get the 2026-27 COVID Vaccine?
The CDC recommends a 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccine for all adults 18 and older, plus children 6 months to 17 years who are moderately or severely immunocompromised. For all other children, the CDC says vaccination is a shared clinical decision, meaning you and your child’s clinician decide together.
The updated vaccines target the XFG variant, a descendant of the JN.1 lineage that the FDA selected in May 2026. On August 27, 2026, the FDA approved the 2026-2027 formulas of Pfizer-BioNTech’s Comirnaty and Moderna’s Spikevax. However, there is a wrinkle worth knowing. The FDA label for Comirnaty covers people 65 and older, plus those 5 to 64 with at least one condition that raises the risk of severe COVID-19. As a result, the CDC’s COVID-19 clinical considerations flag some uses as “off-label” when its recommendation goes beyond the FDA label, such as a healthy 30-year-old.
Can healthy adults under 65 still get a COVID shot?
Yes. Because the CDC recommends the vaccine for all adults, a healthy adult under 65 can still get one, although it may count as off-label use of the product. Pharmacy policies can differ, so call ahead or check your pharmacy’s scheduling site, and bring a list of any health conditions you have.
Which COVID vaccine can young children get?
According to the CDC, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is no longer authorized for children 6 months to 4 years, and Moderna’s Spikevax is the only FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine available for that age group. In contrast to federal guidance, several medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, published their own 2026-27 recommendations, so your pediatrician may discuss those too.
Should you get a COVID vaccine while pregnant?
ACOG, the main US group for obstetricians, “continues to strongly recommend” COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccination for people who are pregnant, postpartum or planning a pregnancy, according to its September 2, 2026 announcement. ACOG also reported that only 11.1% of pregnant women got a COVID-19 vaccine in the 2025-26 season. Talk with your prenatal care provider about timing.
Watch out. The FDA label for mRNA COVID-19 vaccines warns of a rare increased risk of myocarditis and pericarditis (heart inflammation), usually in the first week after a dose and most often in males 12 to 24. Seek care right away for chest pain, shortness of breath or a racing or pounding heartbeat after vaccination.
RSV Vaccine for Adults, Pregnancy and Babies
The CDC recommends an RSV vaccine for every adult 75 and older and for adults 50 to 74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV. Unlike a flu shot, the RSV vaccine is a single dose, not a yearly shot, so if you already had one, you do not need another right now.
Who counts as “increased risk” for RSV?
The CDC’s adult RSV vaccine page lists chronic heart or lung disease, a weakened immune system, certain other underlying medical conditions and living in a nursing home. If any of these apply to you and you are 50 or older, ask your doctor whether you qualify.
Which RSV vaccine for adults is best, and when?
Three RSV vaccines are available for adults: GSK’s Arexvy, Moderna’s mResvia and Pfizer’s Abrysvo. The CDC states there is no preference among them. You can get one any time of year; however, late summer and early fall (August to October in most of the continental US) is the best time, just before RSV season peaks. Protection lasts more than one season.
How are babies protected from RSV?
Babies get protection in one of two ways, and most do not need both, according to the CDC’s infant RSV guidance:
- Maternal vaccine: Pfizer’s Abrysvo, given at 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy from September through January in most of the US. Antibodies pass to the baby and protect for about the first 6 months.
- Infant antibody: nirsevimab or clesrovimab for babies under 8 months whose mothers were not vaccinated, given shortly before RSV season or within a week of birth for babies born October through March. Protection starts right away and lasts at least 5 months.
- Second season: a small group of high-risk children 8 to 19 months (for example, some premature babies with chronic lung disease) may get nirsevimab before their second RSV season.
Also note that a mother who got Abrysvo in a previous pregnancy generally should not get another dose; instead, her new baby should receive an infant antibody.
Can You Get Flu, COVID and RSV Vaccines Together?
Yes. The CDC says flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines may be given at the same visit, and there is no required waiting time if you prefer to space them out. Getting them together means fewer trips, which is why many people pair their flu shot 2026 visit with a COVID shot.
That said, expect a slightly sorer day. A CDC study cited on its coadministration page found that people who got flu and COVID-19 shots together were slightly more likely to report fatigue, headache and muscle aches, mostly mild and short-lived. Similarly, clinical trials of RSV and flu vaccines given together found them safe, although injection-site reactions may be more common. The shots go in separate spots, often one in each arm.
Pro tip. If you plan to get two or three shots at once, book them for a day when a little tiredness will not matter, such as a Friday afternoon. Plus, get a good night’s sleep beforehand and stay hydrated.
Where Can You Get Fall Vaccines, and What Do They Cost?
You can get fall vaccines at most pharmacies, doctor’s offices, health centers and local health departments, and most insured people pay nothing. Here is how coverage works, based on the CDC’s guide to paying for adult vaccines (updated September 2, 2026).
| Coverage | Flu and COVID-19 | RSV | Key condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marketplace and most private plans | No copay or coinsurance | No copay or coinsurance | In-network provider; applies even before your deductible |
| Medicare | Part B, no cost | Part D plans, no cost | Use a provider or pharmacy your plan accepts |
| Medicaid | No cost for most adults | No cost for most adults | Vaccines on the CDC adult schedule |
| TRICARE | Covered | Covered | Per CDC schedule |
| Uninsured | Federally funded health centers may offer sliding fees; health departments can point you to free or low-cost options | Check HealthCare.gov for coverage | |
How do I get a CVS or Walgreens flu shot?
Large chains such as CVS and Walgreens let you book a flu shot 2026 appointment, COVID vaccine or RSV vaccine online or in their apps, and many stores also take walk-ins. To find nearby pharmacies, you can also use the CDC-run locator at Vaccines.gov. Before you go, keep these points in mind:
- Bring your insurance or Medicare card, because coverage depends on billing your plan.
- Call ahead for young children, since pharmacies set their own minimum ages, and a pediatrician’s office may be easier.
- Ask for the specific flu shot 2026 type you need, such as a high-dose shot if you are 65 or older.
- Request a record of your shots or check the pharmacy app so your doctor has it.
Cold vs Flu vs COVID vs RSV: How Do Symptoms Differ?
Flu usually hits suddenly, while a cold creeps in gradually, but you cannot reliably tell flu from COVID-19 by symptoms alone. The CDC says a test that checks for both viruses is the way to know, which matters because flu antivirals work best when started within two days of symptoms.
| Feature | Common cold | Flu | COVID-19 | RSV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden, 1 to 4 days after infection | 2 to 5 days, up to 14 days after infection | 4 to 6 days after infection, in stages |
| Fever | Rare | Common, about 3 to 4 days (not everyone) | Common | Can occur |
| Body aches | Slight | Common, often severe | Common | Less typical |
| Fatigue | Sometimes | Usual | Common | Reduced activity, especially in infants |
| Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing | Common | Sometimes | Common | Common |
| Cough | Mild to moderate | Common, can be severe | Common | Common, may include wheezing |
| Loss of taste or smell | Uncommon | Possible | More frequent than with flu | Not typical |
| Usual recovery | About a week | A few days to under 2 weeks | Varies | 1 to 2 weeks |
What are the flu symptoms in 2026?
The flu symptoms this season are the same classic ones the CDC lists every year: fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache and fatigue. Vomiting and diarrhea can happen too, and they are more common in children than adults. Importantly, you can have flu without a fever.
How long are flu and COVID contagious?
With flu, older children and adults are most contagious during the first three days of illness, according to the CDC. With COVID-19, people are generally considered contagious for about eight days after symptoms start, and they can spread it before symptoms appear. Young children and people with weakened immune systems may stay contagious longer with either virus. Rest helps your body recover, so our guide on how to sleep better is worth a look if illness keeps you up.
Do you need antivirals for the flu?
Not always. According to the CDC’s flu treatment page, most people who are not at higher risk do not need antivirals. However, the CDC recommends early treatment for people at higher risk of complications or who are very sick. These drugs need a prescription and are not sold over the counter, so call your doctor or use a telehealth visit quickly if you are in a high-risk group.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most people recover from a cold, flu, COVID-19 or RSV at home, but some warning signs need care right away. The CDC lists these emergency signs for flu, and they are sensible red flags for any respiratory illness.
Emergency warning signs in adults
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Persistent dizziness, confusion or trouble staying awake
- Seizures, or not urinating
- Severe muscle pain, weakness or unsteadiness
- Fever or cough that improves, then returns or gets worse
- A chronic condition, such as asthma or heart disease, getting worse
Emergency warning signs in children
- Fast or labored breathing, bluish lips or face, or ribs pulling in with each breath
- Chest pain, or muscle pain so severe the child refuses to walk
- Signs of dehydration, such as no urine for hours or no tears when crying
- Not alert or interacting when awake, or seizures
- Fever above 104°F that medicine does not bring down, or any fever in a baby under 12 weeks
- Fever or cough that improves, then returns or gets worse
For RSV in particular, the CDC advises contacting a healthcare professional if you or your child has trouble breathing, is not drinking enough fluids or has worsening symptoms. In very young infants, irritability, low activity and breathing trouble may be the only signs. If you think it is an emergency, call 911.
Our verdict
If you do one thing this fall, get your flu shot 2026 dose, ideally by the end of October. Next, if you are an adult, add the updated COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit, since the CDC recommends it for everyone 18 and older. Finally, if you are 75 or older, or 50 to 74 with a heart, lung or immune condition, ask about a one-time RSV vaccine if you have never had one.
Because federal guidance is in flux this year, check with your doctor or pharmacist about anything specific to your situation, especially for children, pregnancy or a chronic illness. For most insured people, all of these shots cost nothing at an in-network provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I get my flu shot in 2026?
The CDC says September or October is ideal for most people. July and August are generally too early, especially for adults 65 and older, although early shots can make sense in the third trimester of pregnancy and for children who need two doses. If you miss that window, still get vaccinated, because the CDC recommends continuing throughout the season while flu viruses circulate.
Can you get flu, RSV and COVID shots at the same time?
Yes. The CDC says flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines may be given at the same visit, with no required waiting time if you space them out instead. People who get flu and COVID shots together are slightly more likely to feel tired, achy or have a headache afterward, but these reactions are usually mild and short-lived.
How often do adults need the RSV vaccine?
Right now, only once. The CDC says the RSV vaccine is not an annual vaccine because protection lasts more than one season, so adults who already had a dose should not get another at this time. It is recommended for everyone 75 and older and for adults 50 to 74 at increased risk of severe RSV.
Is the flu shot free?
For most insured people, yes. Marketplace and most private plans must cover recommended vaccines with no copay at an in-network provider, even before the deductible. Medicare Part B covers flu and COVID-19 shots, Part D covers RSV at no cost, and most Medicaid adults pay nothing. Without insurance, try a federally funded health center or your local health department.
Who should get the COVID vaccine in 2026?
For the 2026-27 season, the CDC recommends a COVID-19 vaccine for all adults 18 and older and for children 6 months to 17 years who are moderately or severely immunocompromised. For other children, the decision is shared between parents and a clinician. The FDA label is narrower, so some uses in healthy adults under 65 count as off-label.
How can I tell if I have the flu or COVID?
You usually cannot tell by symptoms alone, according to the CDC, because both can cause fever, cough, sore throat, aches and fatigue. Loss of taste or smell is more common with COVID-19, and flu tends to start more suddenly. A test that checks for both viruses gives you the answer and helps your doctor decide on treatment.
Related health guides
- How to sleep better
- Why am I always tired?
- Longevity habits backed by evidence
- How to reduce stress naturally
- Best foods for gut health
By Elizabeth Brown, health and wellness writer. Sources: CDC, FDA, ACOG and Moderna/FDA labeling. Last reviewed for accuracy: October 21, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Vaccine recommendations can change during the season, so always consult a qualified healthcare provider or pharmacist about which vaccines are right for you or your child. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 right away.
