Health officials focus on the season ahead
New York health officials are urging eligible residents to obtain seasonal influenza and COVID-19 immunizations before respiratory illnesses typically intensify in winter. State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald received both vaccines publicly on October 9, using the start of the October-to-May respiratory season to emphasize prevention.
The state and New York City have endorsed evidence-based recommendations from major medical organizations covering influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus. Individual eligibility differs by age, pregnancy, health history and prior vaccination, so residents should confirm the appropriate schedule with a clinician or pharmacist.
Last season’s burden
During the 2025–26 season, nearly 27,000 New Yorkers were hospitalized with influenza and almost 600 died, according to the Health Department. COVID-19 accounted for more than 13,000 hospitalizations and nearly 500 deaths. Those totals describe reported severe outcomes, not every infection.
Flu activity generally peaks between December and February, which is why officials are emphasizing vaccination before the busiest part of the season. Protection takes time to develop, and access may become less convenient when demand rises or illness disrupts work and school.
Coverage and places to receive vaccines
Most private insurance plans, Medicare and Medicaid cover recommended influenza, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines without cost-sharing when patients use an in-network provider or pharmacy, the state says. Coverage and stock can vary, so confirming both before an appointment can prevent an unexpected charge or wasted trip.
Uninsured residents, and people whose insurance does not cover an updated vaccine, may receive shots without charge through participating community health centers or local health departments in the state Vaccines for Adults program. Children may receive eligible vaccines through pediatric offices and the Vaccines for Children program.
Age and risk considerations
Participating pharmacies can administer influenza vaccine to people older than two without a prescription, while children six months and older can receive it through a health-care provider. People with chronic lung, heart or immune conditions, young children, older adults and pregnant people can face a higher risk of serious complications from respiratory infections.
RSV recommendations are targeted rather than universal, and COVID guidance can depend on age and risk. A person’s clinician can account for prior doses, recent infection, allergies and medical conditions. General public guidance should not replace that individual assessment.
A new influenza option for older adults
The state says the first mRNA influenza vaccine is available this season for people 50 and older. Trial results cited by health officials suggest performance comparable to a high-dose vaccine in adults over 65 and stronger protection against laboratory-confirmed flu than a standard-dose shot in adults.
The option is covered by commercial insurance, Medicaid and Medicare and is available at participating pharmacies, according to the department. It does not make other flu vaccines obsolete. Adults considering it should discuss which formulation is appropriate for their age, health and local availability.
Vaccination is one layer of preparation
State guidance says influenza and COVID vaccines can be given at the same visit. Vaccination reduces the risk of severe disease, but it does not prevent every infection. Staying home when sick, improving indoor ventilation, washing hands and seeking timely medical advice remain useful, particularly around people at higher risk.
Flu, COVID and RSV can produce overlapping symptoms, making self-diagnosis unreliable. Severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion or rapidly worsening symptoms require prompt medical attention. For most residents, the practical task now is simpler: check eligibility, verify coverage and schedule protection before winter transmission reaches its peak.
Residents can also contact their local health department when they need help locating a participating clinic or adult vaccine program.
Source: New York State Department of Health seasonal immunization guidance. Reporting reviewed October 14, 2026.