Illinois has introduced its own fall vaccination recommendations for flu, COVID-19 and RSV, filling a gap left by federal uncertainty and aiming to protect residents amid the respiratory virus season.
Illinois has issued its own fall vaccination guidance for flu, COVID-19 and RSV, widening the gap between state public health policy and shifting federal advice as respiratory virus season approaches. The Illinois Department of Public Health said the recommendations are based on its Immunisation Advisory Committee, a panel of doctors and public health experts, and are intended to give residents and clinicians a clear science-based framework.
Under the state guidance, flu shots are recommended for everyone aged six months and older. COVID-19 vaccination is advised for all adults aged 19 and over, children aged six months to 23 months, older children in certain risk groups or whose parents want them vaccinated, and people who are pregnant, trying to conceive or recently pregnant. The department also recommends RSV vaccination for adults aged 75 and older, adults aged 50 to 74 at increased risk, pregnant people between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy if they have not already been vaccinated, infants under eight months whose mothers were not vaccinated during pregnancy, and some children aged eight to 19 months who are at higher risk.
Illinois health officials said the move is meant to help fill a gap left by federal uncertainty, after the federal immunisation advisory committee has not met this year because of ongoing litigation. State officials have argued that they cannot wait for a stable national process before issuing advice for a season in which flu, COVID-19 and RSV can all cause serious illness, hospitalisation and death. The Illinois Department of Public Health also said it has issued a standing order to make COVID-19 vaccination easier to access across the state.
The state guidance tracks recommendations recently backed by the Illinois-based American Medical Association and American Academy of Pediatrics, which joined other medical groups in urging broad vaccination against the three viruses. Illinois has also taken additional steps to preserve access and coverage, including insurance guidance and an emergency rule designed to keep vaccines available without interruption for residents in plans regulated by the state. Public health officials are urging families, older adults and pregnant people to use the autumn vaccination period to reduce the risk of severe respiratory illness.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
