The New Guidance

The American Academy of Pediatrics has published its recommendations for influenza prevention and control in children for the 2026–27 flu season. The core recommendation is the same as in prior years, and it's direct: all children 6 months and older who don't have a medical contraindication should receive an annual flu vaccine.

Timing matters. The AAP recommends getting vaccinated as soon as possible in the season, with the goal of having it done by the end of October. That timing window provides protection before flu season typically peaks in winter months. Waiting until November or December means kids may enter the highest-risk period without full immunity.

Why the Stakes Are Real

The 2025–26 flu season was a high-severity year for pediatric health. According to AAP guidance, 190 children died from influenza in the United States during that season. Of those 190 children, 85% were not vaccinated against flu.

What the Guidance Covers

The AAP guidance for 2026–27 makes a few things clear that tend to come up as questions among parents:

There's no preferred formulation. Any licensed flu vaccine that's appropriate for your child's age and health status is acceptable. Parents don't need to seek out a specific brand or type — the immunization, not the product, is what matters. Talk to your pediatrician if you have questions about which option is right for your child.

The number of doses depends on age and vaccination history. Children receiving a flu vaccine for the first time, and those under 9 who have only received one prior dose, may need two doses spaced at least four weeks apart. Most children who have been vaccinated in prior years need only one dose. Your child's doctor will know which applies.

The recommendation applies to children 6 months through 18 years old. Infants younger than 6 months are too young to receive the vaccine, which makes vaccination of household members and caregivers especially important for protecting them.

Back-to-School and Flu Risk

Colorado Springs families are in back-to-school season right now. D11 started today. D20 starts next week. More kids in classrooms means more exposure to respiratory illnesses of all kinds — and flu spreads easily in school settings.

Getting vaccinated now, in August, means protection is building before flu season arrives in the fall and winter. Most pediatrician offices and many Colorado pharmacies offer flu shots, often without a dedicated appointment. A call to your child's doctor's office is usually the fastest way to find out when and how to get it done.

What's Next

The AAP's full 2026–27 influenza policy statement is published in Pediatrics and available at publications.aap.org. For parent-friendly guidance on flu vaccines and schedules, HealthyChildren.org (the AAP's parent-facing site) is the clearest starting point.

Call your pediatrician to schedule a flu shot appointment, or check whether a local pharmacy offers them for your child's age group. In Colorado Springs, many pharmacy chains offer walk-in flu shots without a prescription for children 9 and older; younger children typically need a pediatrician's office visit.