DHS Issues Immunization Recommendations Ahead of Respiratory Virus Season

As respiratory virus season arrives, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has released immunization recommendations for flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These recommendations follow the release of standing medical orders for flu and COVID-19 vaccines to improve access to vaccination across the state.

"At DHS, our goal is to help people across the state make the best choices for their own health and the health of their communities. To do that, we review the latest science and evidence and make recommendations that help your health care providers answer your questions and get you the best care you need, while working to make vaccines easier to access. Ultimately, our goal is to help everyone make informed decisions and get protected," said DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson.

While the common respiratory viruses of flu, COVID-19, and RSV circulate all year, cases increase during the fall and winter months. DHS tracks and monitors these viruses year-round to inform health care providers, public health partners, and all Wisconsinites about current virus activity and when risk of illness may increase. Respiratory illness activity is currently low across Wisconsin based on emergency department, laboratory testing, and wastewater data.

During the 2025-2026 season, Wisconsin saw nearly 11,000 hospitalizations associated with complications of flu, RSV, and COVID-19, with the majority occurring in older adults. Routine vaccinations help prevent the most serious symptoms of these viruses, as they are proven to safely help or bodies learn how to recognize and fight serious illnesses.

"While these viruses may only cause mild sickness for some, they can cause serious illness that results in missed days of school or work, or even costly medical appointments or hospitalization. And, sadly, each year we see deaths from health complications caused by these viruses," said Paula Tran, state health officer and Division of Public Health administrator. "Vaccines help protect your own health, and the health of the people around you, by safely teaching your body how to recognize and fight viruses. This reduces the chance of serious illness and spreading the virus."

DHS recommends the following immunization guidance for the upcoming respiratory virus season:

• Flu (influenza): Flu vaccines are updated every year to offer the best protection against the viruses predicted to circulate. A flu vaccine is recommended each flu season for everyone 6 months and older. This is especially important for people at highest risk of severe illness including older adults, people with chronic  health conditions, people who are pregnant, and young children, as well as those who interact with high-risk individuals.
• COVID-19: COVID vaccines are updated to help offer the best protection against current variants. An updated COVID-19 vaccine is recommended every fall for all Wisconsinites 6 months and older. This is especially important for people 65 and older, people who have never received a COVID-19 vaccine, and people who are at risk for severe complications from COVID-19, including infants and young children, people who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or who have recently given birth, and people with underlying health conditions. People who spend time with these populations should also be vaccinated against COVID-19 to reduce their likelihood of spreading the disease.
• RSV: A one-time dose of RSV vaccination for those who are over age 50 and at increased risk of severe RSV disease, and for all adults 75 and older. The RSV vaccine is not a vaccine that older adults need to get every year. DHS also recommends one dose of the vaccine be given during 32-36 weeks of pregnancy, between September 1 and March 1. If the RSV vaccine isn't given during pregnancy, an RSV antibody shot is recommended for infants less than 8 months old and some toddlers to protect them from severe RSV disease. The RSV vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including COVID-19 and flu.

To find and schedule a vaccine, Wisconsin residents are encouraged to check with their primary care provider, local or Tribal health department, pharmacy, or community clinic. DHS has issued statewide standing orders for flu and COVID-19 vaccines that allow most Wisconsinites who want them to get vaccines at pharmacies across the state without a prescription. 

Most health insurance plans continue to cover recommended vaccines, although coverage can vary. Wisconsinites should consult their insurance provider to learn about coverage options. Anyone who does not have health insurance, or whose health insurance does not cover vaccines, can connect with the Vaccines for Children Program and Vaccines for Adults Program. Both programs will provide access to flu and COVID vaccines.

Find more information about respiratory viruses on the DHS Respiratory Viruses webpage.