West Coast Health Alliance 2026-2027 respiratory virus season immunization recommendations

For immediate release: September 4, 2026 (26-058)

OLYMPIA – The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) is issuing immunization recommendations for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season. These recommendations are informed by trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

Immunization is the best protection available against respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Seasonal immunization is also a critical public health tool to reduce serious illness, community transmission, and health care systems strain.

The WCHA believes that all recommended immunizations should be accessible to the people of our states. WCHA emphasizes the importance of protecting people most impacted by these respiratory viruses, especially our most vulnerable. This includes the youngest and oldest individuals in our states; other individuals at higher risk for complications, including people who are pregnant; individuals living in congregate settings; and those who live or work with people at higher risk. The WCHA will continue to evaluate new evidence and recommendations as they become available and is committed to sharing any updated assessments with our communities.

1. COVID-19 vaccine is available for persons 6 months and older.
2. Protect infants with either prenatal RSV vaccine or infant dose of nirsevimab or clesrovimab.
3. RSV vaccination during pregnancy or for adults is currently recommended once rather than annually.
4. Two doses given at least 4 weeks apart are recommended for ages 6 months–8 years who are getting flu vaccine for the first time.

About West Coast Health Alliance

The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) is a partnership between California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by safety, efficacy, transparency, access and trust.

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