The Illinois Department of Public Health is updating its immunization recommendations ahead of the respiratory virus season, urging residents to get flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccinations. These guidelines are based on advice from the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee. A new standing order expands access to COVID-19 vaccines, making them available at more local pharmacies and clinics without requiring an individual prescription. Health officials stress the importance of vaccinations to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the strain on healthcare resources. The department encourages all eligible residents to consult their healthcare providers about the recommended immunizations for this season.
“At a time when the federal government is abdicating its responsibility to provide clear, science-informed guidance, Illinois is stepping up,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Illinois will continue to empower providers and families across our state with the information and access they need to guard against illness and disease.”
“All Illinoisans, including concerned parents and health care providers, deserve credible, transparent, science-based vaccine guidance,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “IDPH’s recommendations, made in consultation with our Immunization Advisory Committee, will ensure that residents can protect themselves and their family members this upcoming respiratory season. In addition, the accompanying standing order will allow residents access to COVID-19 vaccine in local pharmacies and other health care settings.”
“The committee members had a robust discussion that included high quality scientific evidence and clear public health questions,” said Marielle Fricchione, MD, IL-IAC Chair and Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Rush Medical College. “I’m grateful to Governor Pritzker and Director Vohra for allowing IAC to do what was right for Illinois by applying best practices with an ‘evidence to recommendations’ framework to ensure broad access to safe and effective vaccines.”
Illinois health officials have released updated vaccination recommendations for the 2025-2026 respiratory illness season. The flu vaccine is encouraged for everyone six months and older. RSV immunization is advised for pregnant individuals in weeks 32 to 36, all infants under eight months lacking maternal protection, certain children through 19 months at higher risk, adults 50 to 74 with increased risk, and everyone 75 and older. For COVID-19, vaccination is suggested for children from six months up to 23 months, kids 2 to 17 with risk factors or special circumstances, all adults 18 and above, and those currently or recently pregnant.
“For pediatricians and for the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (ICAAP), a child’s health and safety always come first. So, we are deeply grateful to the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Immunization Advisory Committee for their leadership, expertise and dedication to science-based recommendations,” said Michelle Barnes, MD, FAAP, President, ICAAP. “Today’s guidance not only provides answers during a confusing time but helps strengthen disease prevention and immunization practices across Illinois, which are vital components of pediatric health care. ”
As the fall respiratory virus season begins, IDPH’s Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard is designed to provide important information on COVID-19, flu, and RSV activity in Illinois.
“The physicians of the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) commend Governor Pritzker, IDPH Director and ISMS member Dr. Sameer Vohra, and, especially, the Immunization Advisory Committee, for supporting medical science,” said Richard C. Anderson, MD, President of the Illinois State Medical Society. “These vaccine recommendations provide clear guidance to patients, physicians and payers. As we enter the fall respiratory virus season, it’s important for children and adults to get timely immunizations to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the community from these easily transmissible diseases. It’s also essential for everyone to stay up to date on all recommended vaccinations to protect against other serious illnesses. And, as always, if individuals have concerns, they should talk to their physicians.”
Illinois is approaching its annual peak in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases, typically seen in December, with flu often surging again in February. The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible to stay ahead of rising infection rates. Vaccines are available at local health departments, pharmacies, and healthcare providers, with locations easily found on the IDPH Vaccine Locator Dashboard. Residents can also check real-time data on flu and COVID-19 vaccination coverage by county to better understand local risk and make well-informed decisions for their health this season.