New York State and New York City Health Departments Endorse 2026–2027 Respiratory Virus Season Immunization Recommendations

As Respiratory Virus Season Approaches, New York's Top Health Officials Recommend New Yorkers Roll Up Their Sleeves for Flu, RSV and COVID-19 Vaccines

Immunization Is One of the Most Effective Ways for New Yorkers to Protect Themselves From Getting Sick During Respiratory Virus Season

ALBANY, N.Y. (September 10, 2026) – The New York State Department of Health and the New York City Health Department today announced their endorsement of recommendations for flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 immunizations ahead of respiratory virus season. New York State and New York City health officials encourage providers to follow the Respiratory Virus Immunization Recommendations released by the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America, in collaboration with the American Medical Association and the Vaccine Integrity Project. These recommendations are based on peer-reviewed scientific data from nearly 300 studies and represent evidence-based medicine.

"As the State's doctor, I want to remind everyone that vaccines are the best protection against serious illness from respiratory infections. Last year, there were 27,000 hospitalizations for flu, 14,000 for RSV and 13,000 for COVID in the state. People with certain health conditions, like asthma, diabetes, heart, or lung conditions have higher risk. Vaccines safely prepare our immune systems to recognize and resist diseases," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "New York State remains committed to ensuring providers have the latest evidence-based guidance and that families have access to recommended immunizations that help keep communities healthy."

NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin said, "Each respiratory virus season, we see increased levels of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 infections, and New Yorkers deserve the most accurate and reliable information available when it comes to protecting their family's health. The respiratory virus immunization recommendations put forth by the medical associations are a critical step toward safeguarding the health of New York families. This past winter, New York City saw a sharp increase in reported flu cases in late November and December. By endorsing this guidance, which is based on the latest scientific research, we are empowering healthcare providers and communities to take proactive measures against preventable illnesses, ensuring healthier lives throughout the holiday season and beyond."

Immunization during respiratory virus season is one of the most effective ways for New Yorkers to protect themselves from serious illness, especially young children, older adults, those with certain risk factors, and pregnant people. Everyone 6 months and older should receive an annual flu vaccine. An RSV immunization is recommended for infants at birth and those under 8 months if their pregnant parent did not receive an RSV vaccine during pregnancy, children 8 to 19 months in certain risk groups, adults 50 to 74 years in certain risk groups and all adults 75 years of age and older if they have not received RSV vaccine previously, and pregnant people in their first eligible pregnancy. Most people 6 months and older should receive a COVID-19 vaccine. This is especially important for young children (6 to 23 months), children and adults with risk factors that put them at high risk of severe disease, older adults, pregnant people, and immunocompromised people.

The recommended vaccines continue to be covered by private health insurance plans, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, and public health insurance coverage. Healthcare providers are encouraged to offer all recommended respiratory virus season vaccines to eligible patients. Practices that are unable to provide vaccinations on-site should ensure patients receive timely referrals to vaccination providers. When referring patients for vaccination, providers are encouraged to follow up with their patients to ensure they receive all recommended vaccines and doses.

The New York State Department of Health collects, compiles, and analyzes information on New York State respiratory activity year-round and produces a weekly Respiratory Surveillance Report during the respiratory season (October through the following May).