Latest CDC Recommendations for Adults Over 65
For the 2025–2026 season, the CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommend that adults aged 65 and older make a shared clinical decision with their healthcare provider about receiving the updated COVID-19 vaccine. This guidance moves away from a universal schedule and emphasizes a personalized approach based on individual risk factors and health status. The goal is to provide targeted protection, especially for those at higher risk of severe COVID-19.
Why the Recommendation Changed
The shift in recommendations is due to several factors, including the availability of updated vaccines targeting current variants, the need for a more risk-based strategy, and the recognition that many older adults are already up-to-date with their vaccinations. The focus is now on individual needs and varying levels of immunity within the senior population.
Understanding Shared Clinical Decision-Making
Shared clinical decision-making involves a discussion between you and your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action based on your individual circumstances and current medical evidence. Key discussion points for COVID-19 boosters for those over 65 include:
- Individual risk factors: Your doctor will consider any pre-existing health conditions that increase your risk of severe illness.
- Local virus activity: The prevalence of COVID-19 in your area can influence the timing of a booster.
- Prior immunity: Your history of COVID-19 infection and vaccination will be taken into account.
- Lifestyle and exposure: Your daily activities and potential for exposure are factors to consider.
- Personal health goals: You and your doctor will discuss your desired level of protection.
How Shared Decision-Making Differs from Prior Mandates
| Feature | Previous Annual Recommendation (Pre-Fall 2025) | Fall 2025 Shared Decision-Making |
|---|---|---|
| Who gets vaccinated? | All adults 65+ were recommended to get an annual shot. | Focuses on individuals over 65, especially those with increased risk factors. |
| How often? | Typically annually, with additional doses sometimes recommended for immunocompromised individuals. | Frequency is determined on an individual basis with a healthcare provider. |
| Deciding factor? | Primarily based on CDC blanket guidelines for all in the age group. | A personalized discussion combining risk assessment, personal health, and CDC guidance. |
| Guidance source? | CDC publishes a single, broad recommendation for the group. | Healthcare providers discuss pros and cons, considering specific patient circumstances and the updated ACIP advice. |
| Key consideration? | Ensuring widespread vaccination coverage to protect against community spread. | Prioritizing protection for individuals with the highest risk of severe disease. |
Practical Steps for Getting Your Fall 2025 Booster
- Consult your healthcare provider: Discuss your health status and risk factors with your doctor for personalized advice.
- Prepare your medical history: Have your chronic conditions, past infections, and vaccination records ready to share.
- Locate a vaccination site: Find places offering the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine, such as pharmacies or doctor's offices.
- Consider recent infection: If you recently had COVID-19, your provider might suggest waiting up to three months for your booster.
- Discuss other vaccines: Talk to your provider about getting other recommended vaccines, like the flu and RSV shots, potentially at the same time.
Conclusion
For adults over 65, determining how often to receive a COVID booster in the 2025–2026 season is a decision to be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. This shift to shared clinical decision-making allows for a more personalized approach that considers individual health status and risk factors. While vaccine protection can decrease, especially in older adults, the updated strategy helps tailor recommendations to each person's unique needs. By discussing your situation with a medical professional, you can ensure you receive the most appropriate protection against severe illness.
Visit the CDC's official website for the latest immunization schedules and guidance.
Understanding Your Protection
- Waning Immunity: Protection from COVID-19 vaccines can decrease over time, and boosters help restore immunity.
- Evolving Variants: Updated boosters are designed to target current strains of the virus.
- Severe Illness Risk: Older adults face a higher risk of severe outcomes, and boosters reduce this risk.
- Community Spread: Vaccination also helps protect others in the community.
How to Discuss with Your Doctor
- Prepare questions: Write down your questions about eligibility and timing before your appointment.
- Be open about exposure: Discuss your routines and potential exposure risks.
- Understand recommendations: Ask your doctor to explain the rationale behind their recommendations for your health needs.
Considerations for Vulnerable Groups
- Immunocompromised Individuals: People with weakened immune systems may need more frequent boosters, with timing determined by a healthcare provider.
- Recent Infection: A delay of up to three months after a recent COVID-19 infection may be recommended before getting a booster.
Resources and Next Steps
- Talk to your pharmacist: Pharmacies can provide consultations and administer the vaccine.
- Check local health updates: Stay informed about local trends and vaccine availability through your health department.
