Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has released its vaccine recommendations for the 2025-2026 fall and winter respiratory season. The guidance, endorsed by IDPH Director Sameer Vohra, follows recommendations from the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee (IL-IAC) and aims to provide evidence-based direction for residents across the state.

Director Vohra announced that he has signed a standing order to facilitate access to COVID-19 vaccines for Illinois residents. This move is in line with Governor JB Pritzker’s executive order issued on September 12, which seeks to maintain access to life-saving immunizations in Illinois.

For the upcoming season, IDPH recommends flu vaccination for everyone aged six months and older. RSV immunization is advised for all pregnant people during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy, infants under eight months without maternal RSV vaccine protection entering their first RSV season, children aged eight months through 19 months at increased risk for severe RSV disease, adults aged 50 through 74 years at increased risk, and all adults aged 75 years and older.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for all children ages six months through 23 months; children ages two through 17 years with at least one underlying risk factor or weakened immune systems, those never previously vaccinated for COVID-19, those living in congregate settings or with individuals at risk; children ages two through 17 years without underlying risk factors if parents or guardians choose; all pregnant people and those planning pregnancy, postpartum or lactating; and all adults aged 18 years and older.

These recommendations are based on a review of state and national data as well as input from medical societies such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Family Physicians. The department noted that this year’s process differs from previous years due to concerns about federal decision-making. Director Vohra stated: "Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) once again demonstrated that this previous gold-standard committee is no longer following the scientific processes necessary to ensure the public’s health and safety. Even worse, the new membership appointed by the Secretary continues to cast doubt on the safety and effectiveness of established vaccines."

Director Vohra emphasized: "Vaccines save lives. Vaccines protect communities. The vaccines we are recommending have been proven to be both safe and effective in preventing illness, reducing the severity of illness, and slowing the spread of seasonal illnesses."

To address uncertainties regarding COVID-19 vaccine coverage following ACIP’s June actions—while insurance coverage was secured for flu and RSV vaccines—IDPH's standing order will allow eligible providers in pharmacies and clinical settings to administer COVID-19 vaccines according to state recommendations. Federal insurance programs, fully-insured plans under the Affordable Care Act, state-regulated insurance programs, and most private insurers are expected to cover these shots.

For routine non-seasonal vaccinations, IDPH advises healthcare providers to continue following CDC immunization schedules updated on August 7, 2025. Director Vohra noted that IDPH will continue reviewing these schedules alongside IL-IAC as science evolves.

"Despite our actions today, we know that more work will need to be done. IDPH...remain committed to all of you – our healthcare providers, public health leaders, and residents in Illinois. We will continue to protect and promote scientific credibility and immunization access," said Vohra.