AAP: All Kids 6 Months and Older Should Get Flu Vaccine Now — 190 Children Died Last Season
The American Academy of Pediatrics issued its 2026–27 flu season guidance in August, and the message is direct: every child 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine as soon as possible, before the season peaks. The urgency is not routine — the 2025–26 season was the most severe in recent years, and Colorado has already confirmed its first pediatric flu death of the new season.
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Advertise hereWhat the AAP Recommends This Season
The AAP's annual flu guidance applies to every child from 6 months of age through adolescence. The academy recommends vaccination before the end of October whenever possible, though any flu vaccine given later in the season still provides protection.
For children receiving the flu vaccine for the first time, two doses are required, spaced at least four weeks apart. Children who received a flu vaccine in a prior season need only one dose. Parents should confirm with their pediatrician which applies to their child.
The guidance covers all available flu vaccine formulations. Most children can receive the nasal spray vaccine (FluMist) if they prefer it over a shot, though some children with certain health conditions should receive the injectable form. Your child's doctor can help you decide.
Why This Season Carries Extra Urgency
The 2025–26 flu season resulted in 190 pediatric deaths nationally — among the highest annual totals recorded. Many of those children had not received the current season's flu vaccine.
Colorado has already confirmed its first pediatric flu death of the 2026–27 season this week. The child was elementary school age and unvaccinated against flu. State data shows flu hospitalizations climbing sharply, from 8 in early September to 46 in the most recent weekly report.
Colorado's child flu vaccination rate sits around 32%, one of the lower rates in the country. That leaves a significant portion of the state's children vulnerable going into the peak season months of November through February.
The RSV Update for Infants
Alongside its flu guidance, the AAP also updated recommendations for RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) prevention in infants. The academy recommends nirsevimab (brand name Beyfortus) for all infants under 8 months who are entering their first RSV season. High-risk children up to 19 months may also be eligible.
RSV is a leading cause of hospitalization for infants in their first year of life. If you have a baby at home, ask your pediatrician about nirsevimab availability and whether your child qualifies.
Where to Get Flu Vaccines in Colorado Springs
Flu vaccines are widely available in COS without a wait at most pharmacies, including Walgreens, CVS, Safeway, and King Soopers. Pediatric clinics typically have them in stock and can often schedule a quick vaccine appointment within a day or two.
If your child is due for a well-child visit, ask for the flu vaccine at that appointment. If not, call the office to ask about a standalone vaccine visit — many practices accommodate them quickly during flu season.
Children on Medicaid or CHP+ can receive the flu vaccine at no cost through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Most providers participating in VFC can confirm eligibility at the time of the visit.
What's Next
Flu season typically peaks in Colorado between December and February, but cases are rising now. The AAP recommends not waiting — getting your child vaccinated in October gives the vaccine time to reach full effectiveness before holiday gatherings and colder weather drive more transmission.
If your child hasn't been vaccinated this season, this week is a good time to schedule it. Most appointments take under 15 minutes.
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