Protecting Kids from the Flu, RSV, COVID-19, and Measles

With kids back in school and spending more time indoors, the fall season is a good time to make sure your child's immunizations are up to date. Respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19 can cause serious illness in children, especially babies and those with certain health conditions. Measles is another concern as outbreaks are occurring in communities where vaccination rates have fallen.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) maintains an evidence-based immunization schedule designed to protect children at the ages when they are the most vulnerable to illnesses. Here's what families should know as we enter the 2026–2027 fall and winter illness season.

Prepare for Flu Season

Flu is more than a bad cold. It can cause serious complications and hospitalization, even in otherwise healthy children. The 2025–2026 season was particularly severe, with nearly 200 pediatric deaths reported through mid-May. For the 2026–2027 season, the AAP recommends flu vaccination for all children ages 6 months and older who don't have a medical reason preventing vaccination. Depending on your child's age and previous flu vaccination history, they may need one or two doses. Children should receive their flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available, particularly if they need two doses. Ideally, children should be fully vaccinated by the end of October so they have protection as flu season gets underway.

Protect Babies from RSV

RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes cold-like symptoms. However, it can be much more serious for infants and can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia. In fact, RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization for babies in the US. There are two ways to help protect babies during their first RSV season. Protection can come from an RSV vaccine given during pregnancy or from an RSV immunization given directly to the baby after birth or when they're entering their first RSV season. The AAP also recommends RSV immunization for children ages 8 through 19 months who are at higher risk of severe RSV illness and are entering their second RSV season.

Stay Current with COVID-19 Protection

COVID-19 continues to cause serious illness and hospitalization in some children, with babies and toddlers at particularly high risk. The AAP's most recent guidance recommends COVID-19 vaccination for all babies and children ages 6 through 23 months. It is also recommended that children and teens ages 2 through 18 who have an increased risk of severe COVID-19 receive the latest age-appropriate COVID vaccine. Children ages 2 through 18 who aren't considered high-risk should still have access to vaccination if their parent or guardian would like them to be protected. Your pediatrician can help you determine the appropriate COVID vaccine for your child based on their age, health, and individual circumstances.

Check Your Child's Measles Vaccination

Measles isn't specifically a seasonal fall illness, but back-to-school season is an important time to make sure your child's routine vaccinations are up-to-date. Measles is one of the world's most contagious diseases and can spread rapidly among people who aren't protected. 

The AAP recommends the first measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at ages 12 to 15 months, followed by a second dose at ages 4 to 6 years. Two doses provide 97% to 99% protection against measles.

During an outbreak or before certain international travel, babies may need an MMR vaccine as early as 6 months old. Talk with your pediatrician if your family will be traveling.

Make Immunization Part of Your Fall Health Routine

Keeping children current on recommended immunizations protects them while also helping reduce the spread of illness to babies and other vulnerable members of the community. Fall is a convenient time to review your child's immunization record, especially if you're already scheduling a well-check visit or physical. Your pediatrician can tell you which immunizations your child needs based on their age, medical history, previous vaccinations, and individual risk factors.

If you have questions about flu, RSV, COVID-19, measles, or other recommended immunizations, call our office. We're here to help your family prepare for a healthy fall and winter season.