Updated flu shots are currently available at pharmacies nationwide, a departure from previous years due to a notably quieter federal public health campaign. Typically, government agencies like the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launch extensive messaging in late summer to encourage annual flu vaccinations. However, this year, experts and pharmacists have observed a lack of such federal promotion.
Epidemiologists and health professionals noted that federal agencies have not responded to inquiries regarding the reduced campaign. Dr. Katrine Wallace, an epidemiologist at the University of Illinois Chicago, stated that in past years, there has been a consistent federal effort through various channels, including advertising, social media, and news briefings, to promote flu vaccination. Past administrations have notably declared national vaccination weeks or launched specific campaigns. For instance, the Biden administration had campaigns such as “Wild to Mild” in 2023 and “Risk Less. Do More” in 2024. However, a directive from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in 2025 reportedly instructed the CDC to cease vaccine promotion campaigns and instead focus on advertisements promoting "informed consent."
This shift in federal messaging could potentially leave some individuals uncertain about the necessity of an annual flu shot, according to Wallace. Despite the reduced federal outreach, medical societies, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, are stepping up to promote the vaccine. The CDC website still recommends the flu shot for everyone 6 months and older, but this formal recommendation differs from an active public health campaign that often prompts individuals to seek vaccination.
Flu shots can be obtained at major pharmacy chains such as Walgreens and CVS. While most adults can receive vaccinations at pharmacies, some states have restrictions on vaccinating children under 3, who may need to visit a pediatrician. Health experts recommend getting vaccinated in September or October, before the flu season typically peaks in winter.
The composition of the 2026-2027 flu vaccines has been updated to protect against three circulating flu strains, including a variant that contributed to a severe flu season last year. Additionally, a new mRNA flu vaccine, mFLUSIVA, is available for adults over 50, offering enhanced protection. It takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop immunity, making early vaccination crucial. The past two flu seasons have been particularly severe, with the 2025-2026 season being the worst in 25 years, marked by high rates of illness and hospitalization. While the severity of the upcoming season is unpredictable, vaccination remains a key measure to prevent severe outcomes.
Despite the federal government's reduced public messaging, flu shots are readily available and represent an effective method of protection against severe illness this fall and winter.