Updated COVID-19 Vaccine for the 2025-2026 Season
As of fall 2025, an updated COVID-19 vaccine is available and recommended for adults 65 and older. This formulation, which comes from manufacturers like Pfizer and Moderna, is designed to target the LP.8.1 variant, which is expected to be a dominant strain during the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued guidance for eligible individuals to receive this shot to ensure continued protection against severe outcomes of the virus.
Recommendation for Seniors
For seniors aged 65 and older, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended a second dose of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, with the new 2025-2026 formula also being available. This additional dose is crucial for providing maximum protection, as older adults remain at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Individuals who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may be eligible for more frequent doses, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best schedule. The CDC's ongoing surveillance confirms the safety and effectiveness of these updated vaccines.
Significant Change to Pneumococcal (Pneumonia) Vaccine Guidelines
One of the most notable changes in the 2025 immunization schedule affects the age at which adults are routinely recommended to receive a pneumococcal vaccine. Pneumococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can cause pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, with older adults being particularly vulnerable.
Expanded Eligibility
In January 2025, the CDC lowered the age for routine adult pneumococcal vaccination from 65 to 50. This change was prompted by observations that adults between 50 and 64 often have underlying health conditions that increase their risk of developing pneumococcal disease. Expanding eligibility allows more adults to protect themselves earlier, before their risk of serious infection substantially increases. There are different types of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV), and a healthcare provider can help determine the right one for your needs.
The RSV Vaccine: A Newer Addition for Many Seniors
While first licensed in 2023, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is a relatively new and important option for many seniors. RSV is a common respiratory virus that can lead to severe illness, especially in older adults with pre-existing heart or lung disease.
Who Should Get It?
The CDC now recommends a single dose of an RSV vaccine for:
- All adults ages 75 and older.
- Adults ages 50–74 who are at an increased risk of severe RSV disease due to underlying conditions.
The best time to receive the vaccine is in the late summer or early fall, before the typical RSV season begins. Currently, the CDC does not recommend annual boosters, meaning most people will only need a single dose.
The Role of Enhanced Annual Flu Shots
Each year, the seasonal flu poses a serious threat to older adults. While the flu vaccine itself is not new, the emphasis on enhanced versions for seniors is a key aspect of healthy aging.
Increased Protection for Older Adults
For adults aged 65 and older, standard-dose flu shots can be less effective because the immune system weakens with age. The CDC recommends enhanced flu vaccines for this age group, which include:
- High-dose vaccine: Contains a higher amount of antigen to trigger a stronger immune response.
- Adjuvanted vaccine: Contains an additive (adjuvant) that boosts the immune system's response to the vaccine.
- Recombinant vaccine: Produced differently to also elicit a stronger response.
The Takeaway for Seniors
Getting a yearly flu vaccination, preferably in the late summer or early fall, is the best way for older adults to protect themselves against flu-related hospitalizations and death. If an enhanced version is not available, receiving a standard-dose shot is still strongly recommended over skipping the vaccination entirely.
Shingles Vaccine: The Ongoing Importance of Shingrix
The shingles vaccine, Shingrix, has been available since 2017 but remains a critical component of senior care. It is a two-dose series recommended for healthy adults 50 and older to prevent shingles and its painful complication, postherpetic neuralgia. Recent observational studies have even suggested a potential link between the shingles vaccine and a reduced risk of dementia, providing another compelling reason to get vaccinated.
Comparing Key Vaccines for Seniors (2025)
| Vaccine | Target | Recommended Age | Dosage | Schedule | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | SARS-CoV-2 (LP.8.1 variant) | 65+ | 1-2 doses | Fall 2025 | Recommended for adults 65+. A second dose is an option. |
| RSV | Respiratory Syncytial Virus | All 75+; 50-74 with risk factors | 1 dose | Late summer/early fall | Not an annual shot currently. |
| Pneumococcal | Streptococcus pneumoniae | All 50+ | Varies | As recommended by provider | Age recommendation lowered in 2025. |
| Flu | Influenza virus (updated strains) | 65+ (enhanced versions) | 1 dose | Annually (late summer/early fall) | Enhanced shots recommended for stronger immune response. |
| Shingrix | Herpes Zoster (Shingles) | 50+ | 2 doses | 2–6 months apart | Offers strong protection and may have cognitive benefits. |
Final Thoughts on Senior Vaccinations
It is clear that staying up-to-date on vaccinations for older adults is an evolving process, with new and updated shots regularly entering the public health landscape. Proactively managing your immunization schedule, especially for viruses that cause serious illness in seniors, is a crucial part of preventive healthcare. Regular consultation with a healthcare provider ensures you receive the most relevant and current protection available. By doing so, you not only protect yourself but also the most vulnerable members of your community, contributing to a healthier society for all. For the latest official guidance and resources, you can always refer to the CDC's official immunization schedule for adults, which is regularly updated with recommendations.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaccines and Immunizations.
- National Council on Aging. What Older Adults Need to Know During Flu Season.
- Pfizer. Press Release on COMIRNATY®.
- National Institute on Aging. Vaccinations and Older Adults.
