October is here, and medical experts are urging people to get their flu shots before influenza starts circulating widely. This year has a twist: the CDC's independent advisory panel — which normally shapes state and insurance vaccine policies — is tied up in a court battle, leaving a guidance gap. Major medical societies, including the AAP, AAFP, ACOG, and IDSA, have stepped in to fill that void with their own vaccination recommendations backed by scientific evidence.

Flu vaccines are recommended for virtually everyone aged 6 months and older, with enhanced options available for seniors. A notable new addition: the FDA approved Moderna's mFlusiva, the first mRNA-based flu vaccine, for adults 50 and older. For COVID-19, the FDA has formally approved updated shots for higher-risk groups (65+ or those with underlying conditions), though family physicians recommend all adults consider getting one. RSV vaccines are also recommended for adults 75+, high-risk adults 50–74, and pregnant women to protect newborns.

By the Numbers:

• Flu vaccines reduced hospitalizations in older adults by 31% last year
• Updated COVID-19 shots cut hospitalization risk by 53% in seniors and slashed ER visits in very young children
• Moderna's mFlusiva was 27% more effective against symptomatic illness in 50- to 64-year-olds vs. a standard flu shot
• The vast majority of child flu deaths in recent seasons occurred in unvaccinated kids

Why it matters: With the CDC's advisory panel out of the picture for now, Americans are navigating vaccine season without the usual federal guidance. Medical societies are picking up the slack, but the situation underscores how policy disruptions can ripple into everyday public health decisions — making it more important than ever for patients and clinicians to stay informed.