The Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) at the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) on August 28, 2025 approved recommendations for flu vaccines for the 2025/2026 flu season.

These recommendations come amidst a controversial shake-up at the agency in which Senate-confirmed CDC Director Susan Monarez was terminated and three top CDC officials resumed after the Director refused to sign-off on ACIP recommendations for the COVID vaccine that reportedly conflicted with available evidence.

A key concern for LeadingAge members is whether COVID vaccine will be available for adults working in LeadingAge member communities who may choose vaccination, as it is widely believed that Medicare and private insurances will likely cover vaccines only for populations for which the shot is recommended.

CDC emphasizes the importance of other mitigation measures, such as testing, treatment, and the use of personal protective equipment, especially in the absence of vaccination.

At this time, a flu vaccine is recommended for all individuals over the age of 6 months, with high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines recommended for individuals aged 65 years and older. Flu season is considered to run October 1 – March 31 each year and while vaccination is ideally recommended to occur in September or October to offer the best protection, vaccines may be given throughout the season to eligible individuals.

Read more on CDC’s flu vaccine recommendations here.