Health Department Shares Updated 2026-2027 Respiratory Vaccine Guidance

As respiratory virus season begins, the Green River District Health Department is encouraging community members to protect themselves and their families by staying up to date on recommended immunizations.

The Kentucky Department for Public Health recently released updated 2026–2027 guidance on vaccines for flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Key points from the new guidance include:

•  Flu (Influenza): Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. Children ages 6 months through 8 years receiving a flu shot for the first time, or who have only received one prior dose, should receive two doses given at least four weeks apart. Adults 65 and older should receive a high-dose, if possible.
• COVID-19: The 2026–2027 COVID-19 vaccine has been updated to target currently circulating strains. Vaccination is recommended for all children ages 6 to 23 months, individuals ages 2 to 64 at increased risk for severe COVID-19 or who desire extra protection, and all adults ages 65 and older. Adults ages 65 and older should receive a second dose approximately six months
  after their first dose.
•  RSV: RSV immunization is recommended for infants under 8 months of age born during or entering their first RSV season (October 1 through March 31) whose mothers did not receive the
  RSV vaccine during pregnancy, as well as certain high-risk children ages 8 to 19 months. Immunization is also recommended for pregnant women at 32-36 weeks of pregnancy between September 1 and March 1, adults ages 50 to 74 who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease, and all adults ages 75 and older. Eligible adults need only a single dose, as annual revaccination is not currently recommended.

Recommendations vary based on age and individual health needs. Residents are encouraged to talk with their healthcare provider to determine which vaccines and other prevention measures are best for them.

For more information about respiratory illness prevention and to read the full updated vaccination guidance, visit healthdepartment.org/respiratory-viruses.