Four major medical societies have unanimously endorsed respiratory virus vaccination recommendations for the 2026–2027 season, supporting updated guidance for influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 across pediatric and adult populations, including patients with chronic lung disease, pregnant individuals, and those who are immunocompromised.
The American Thoracic Society (ATS), American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST), and Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) announced the endorsement on November 5. The recommendations align with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and Infectious Diseases Society of America.
According to the joint guidance, adults aged 65 years or older should receive 2 doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine each season, administered 6 months apart. Updated vaccination is recommended for all adults aged 19 years or older, with particular emphasis on older adults and patients with underlying conditions, including chronic pulmonary disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and immunocompromising conditions.
For RSV, vaccination is recommended for all adults aged 75 years or older and adults aged 50 to 74 years at increased risk for severe disease. Eligible conditions include chronic heart or lung disease, asthma, and weakened immune systems. Immunocompromised adults should receive RSV vaccination, with additional doses considered individually in selected patients.
The guidance also recommends maternal RSV vaccination with RSVpreF (Abrysvo) between 32 weeks 0 days and 36 weeks 6 days of gestation during the recommended seasonal window. Infants younger than 8 months who lack adequate protection through maternal vaccination should receive nirsevimab or clesrovimab during their first RSV season.
Annual influenza vaccination remains recommended beginning at age 6 months. Adults aged 65 years or older should preferentially receive recombinant, adjuvanted, or high-dose influenza vaccines when available. Clinicians may administer indicated influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit without a minimum interval.
The Vaccine Guidance Review Panel evaluated evidence between March and September 2026, examining recommendations established before June 2025, independent systematic reviews, and professional society methodologies. The panel was established following changes to federal vaccine advisory processes that the societies said created uncertainty surrounding immunization recommendations.
“Clinicians and their patients with serious lung disease should not have to navigate a labyrinth of confusion, particularly as we face the upcoming respiratory virus season,” said ATS President Michelle Ng Gong, MD.
The panel also endorsed updated COVID-19 vaccination for health care personnel and routine COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, regardless of trimester.
Sources: CHEST Newsroom
