Health experts urge influenza vaccination ahead of upcoming season

Health experts and organizations are emphasizing the importance of influenza vaccination as the upcoming flu season approaches. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends an annual vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older to mitigate the risk of serious illness.

Pediatric experts have issued warnings regarding increased risks for children, noting that the 2025-26 season saw high severity with over 180 reported pediatric deaths and elevated hospitalization rates. While the Food and Drug Administration has updated vaccine components for the 2026-27 season to better match expected strains, vaccination coverage among children has remained relatively low.

For eligible beneficiaries under TRICARE, flu vaccines are covered at no cost through military hospitals, clinics, or participating pharmacies. High-risk groups, including adults aged 65 and older, pregnant women, and children under 5, are encouraged to prioritize vaccination, ideally during September or October.