Updated Vaccine Recommendations for Children Released as COVID-19 Infections Rise
California – September 17, 2025 – Parents across teh nation are receiving updated vaccine recommendations from the Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC) as COVID-19 infection rates surge, especially in the Southwest. The CDC panel’s recent votes address fall vaccinations for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, alongside guidance for navigating potential misinformation. These recommendations come as southwestern states, including California, reached a 12.5% COVID-19 infection rate as the school year began – the highest in the nation – driven by the highly infectious Stratus variant.
The updated guidance aims to protect vulnerable populations and ease access to vital immunizations. All individuals 6 months and older are now recommended to receive the fall 2025 flu vaccine.for COVID-19, the CDC recommends that children and adolescents receive additional protection, while adults 18 and older should also get vaccinated. Infants under 8 months and those aged 8-19 months with risk factors are also advised to receive the RSV vaccine. These vaccines are available at community clinics, school-based health centers, and pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS, with insurance not required.
Here’s a speedy guide for parents:
* COVID-19: Recommended for all ages, with additional protection advised for children and adolescents.
* Flu: All children and adolescents 6 months and older should receive the fall 2025 vaccine.
* RSV: Infants younger than 8 months are recommended to be vaccinated. Infants 8-19 months old with risk factors should also receive the vaccine.
Amidst evolving recommendations and potential misinformation, the CDC panel is also expected to issue guidance on the hepatitis B vaccine, though a vote has been delayed. Public health experts encourage families to continue following guidance from organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The Vaccine Integrity Project offers resources to help families identify misinformation surrounding vaccine recommendations (https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/vaccine-integrity-project/viewpoint-four-tips-understanding-week-s-acip-meeting?utm_source=General+Interest&utm_campaign=4b540967aa-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_09_17_05_44&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-4b540967aa-466974615).
