Illinois Department of Health Issues Fall Vaccine Guidelines

State health leaders are issuing Illinois' new fall vaccine recommendations, which will expand access to COVID-19 shots.

Illinois Steps In Amid Federal Confusion

According to a press release from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), new immunization guidelines are being rolled out for the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season.

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State health officials noted in the report that the updated recommendations for vaccines are rooted in scientific research, expert review, and extensive deliberation by the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee (IL-IAC).

Standing Order Expands COVID-19 Access

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra issued a standing order allowing Illinois residents to obtain COVID-19 vaccinations directly through pharmacies and clinical settings.

According to the press release, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker praised the move, saying that Illinois is "empowering providers and families with the information and access they need to guard against illness and disease."

Key Recommendations for the Fall Season

The updated guidance recommends flu vaccination for everyone six months or older, while RSV immunizations are advised for pregnant women in late pregnancy, infants entering their first RSV season, high-risk toddlers, and adults over 50 with high-risk factors.

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There's a universal recommendation for RSV immunization for everyone 75 and older, according to the press release.

COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for children as young as six months, high-risk youth, pregnant and postpartum individuals, and all adults.

Proven Impact of Vaccination

State officials highlighted data showing last season's vaccines dramatically reduced hospitalizations:

• Flu shots cut pediatric hospitalizations by up to 78 percent
• COVID-19 vaccines nearly halved hospitalizations among seniors
• RSV protection prevented nearly 90 percent of infant hospitalizations

With respiratory viruses expected to surge this fall, health leaders in Illinois warn that widespread vaccination remains one of the most effective tools to protect our communities.

For other routine, non-seasonal vaccinations, IDPH recommends you follow the CDC Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule and the Adult Immunization Schedule that is available HERE.