AAP 2026–27 Flu Guidance: All Children 6 Months and Older Should Be Vaccinated by October

The American Academy of Pediatrics has released its annual flu vaccine recommendations for the 2026–27 season, and the core message is unchanged: every child 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine, and the best time to do it is by the end of October.

For Colorado Springs families, that means flu shots should be on the fall calendar soon — not just for school-age kids, but for infants too. Here's what the AAP is recommending this season and what's new in the guidance.

Who Needs Two Doses This Season

Many families don't realize their younger children may need two doses of the flu vaccine, not one. The AAP recommends two doses — given at least four weeks apart — for children ages 6 months through 8 years who are either:

• Receiving a flu vaccine for the very first time, or
• Children who received only one flu vaccine dose in their lifetime before July 1, 2026

If your child has received two or more flu vaccine doses in prior seasons, one dose this fall is sufficient. If you're unsure of your child's vaccination history, their pediatrician can pull records and advise accordingly.

Ideally, if a child needs two doses, both should be completed by the end of October — which means getting the first dose soon.

What's New: Febrile Seizure Update for Under-5 Children

The AAP flagged one update to prescribing information for injectable flu vaccines this season. Two postmarketing observational studies found a small increased risk of febrile seizures in children under 5 years of age. The estimated risk across both studies is roughly one additional febrile seizure per 22,000 to 41,000 doses administered.

The AAP is clear on its position: the benefits of flu vaccination significantly outweigh this risk. Flu itself carries a much higher risk of serious illness in young children. But the updated information is something to mention to your child's doctor if you have questions or if your child has a personal or family history of febrile seizures.

What's Next

Flu vaccines for the 2026–27 season are available at most Colorado Springs pediatric offices, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies. Many practices begin flu shot clinics in September, and some offer walk-in or express appointment options for families looking to get in quickly. Call your child's pediatrician or check healthychildren.org for more information on the AAP's full guidance. The goal: everyone vaccinated before flu season hits in force — usually late October through November in Colorado.