SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) — As the fall respiratory virus season begins, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has issued updated vaccine guidance and a new standing order to make COVID-19 vaccines easier to access throughout the state.

The announcement, made on September 23, follows recommendations from the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee (IL-IAC) and comes amid what state officials are calling a breakdown in scientific integrity at the federal level. The state’s actions aim to provide clear, evidence-based direction on protecting against flu, COVID-19, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) as cases are expected to rise in the coming months.

“Illinois is stepping up,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “At a time when the federal government is abdicating its responsibility to provide clear, science-informed guidance, we’re empowering families and providers to make informed choices.”

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

According to IDPH’s new guidance for the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season:

• Flu shots are recommended for everyone six months and older.

• RSV immunization is recommended for infants, at-risk young children, pregnant people, and adults ages 50+, especially those with underlying health conditions.

• COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for all adults, pregnant people, young children, and older children with risk factors or close contact with vulnerable populations.

To ensure residents can easily access COVID-19 shots, IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra issued a standing order that allows pharmacies and clinical settings to administer the vaccine without a patient-specific prescription.

“This standing order ensures Illinoisans can get their vaccines quickly and conveniently,” Vohra said. “We’re providing clarity and credible, science-based direction for both providers and the public.”

Endorsing CDC Schedules Amid Federal Uncertainty

IDPH also reaffirmed its support for the CDC’s August 7 immunization schedules for routine, non-seasonal childhood and adult vaccines. These schedules are based on decades of data and are intended to maintain continuity in pediatric and adult care.

Due to ongoing disruption in federal vaccine review processes, Illinois will continue to rely on the expert guidance of its advisory committee, made up of 20 public health professionals from across the medical field.

“Today’s guidance not only provides answers during a confusing time, but helps strengthen disease prevention and immunization practices across Illinois,” said Dr. Michelle Barnes, President of the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

More Resources Available

IDPH is encouraging residents to get vaccinated before December, when flu, RSV, and COVID-19 activity typically peaks in Illinois. A Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard and Vaccine Locator Tool are available at dph.illinois.gov to help residents find nearby vaccine providers and track virus trends in their county.

“Vaccines work. They save lives. And now they’re easier to get than ever,” said Tom Hughes, Executive Director of the Illinois Public Health Association.