On September 8, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) announced the release of its fall immunization recommendations, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to the health of communities across the country.
As we navigate the fall respiratory virus season and shifting federal guidelines, the AAFP urges all adults, children, and families to stay up to date on recommended vaccines to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy.
“History shows us that vaccines have eradicated diseases that were disabling and deadly in the past, and we can keep it that way, if we continue to vaccinate,” said Margot Savoy, MD, MPH, FAAFP, chief medical officer of the AAFP. “Protecting public health is our collective responsibility. This fall and always, the AAFP stands with its members and public health partners to promote vaccine confidence and uptake.”
The AAFP’s recommendations for fall immunizations are as follows and full immunization schedules can be found on the AAFP website:
- The AAFP recommends all adults 18 years and older should receive a COVID-19 vaccine. It is especially important to get a COVID-19 vaccine if you are:
- 65 years and older
- At increased risk for severe COVID-19 infection
- Have never received a COVID-19 vaccine.
- The AAFP recommends all children ages 6-23 months be vaccinated against COVID-19 and using a risk-based single dose approach for children and teens 2-18 years. The AAFP supports ongoing immunization access for any family wanting to be vaccinated against COVID-19. This recommendation is aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics (2025).
- The AAFP recommends COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy during any trimester and including during lactation. This is consistent with its 2024 recommendation and aligned with the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecologists (2025).
- The AAFP supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidance recommending a one-time RSV vaccine for adults age 75 and older, and for ages 50–74 at increased risk. During September–January, pregnant patients are advised to receive the respiratory syncytial virus vaccine (Abrysvo®) at 32–36 weeks. Infants under 8 months without maternal protection should receive nirsevimab or clesrovimab.
- Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone age 6 months and older without medical contraindications. Because vaccine recommendations change each year, recipients should be given an age-appropriate vaccine approved for their age group.
“The AAFP’s recommendations are closely aligned with other medical societies to ensure continuity for both patients and physicians,” said Dr. Savoy. “We review the same evidence and share the same goal: supporting physicians in protecting patients through safe, effective vaccination.”
For more information and for a complete list of recommendations and immunization resources, visit aafp.org/vaccines.