Back to School: Recommendations for Immunizations
Get back-to-school vaccine recommendations for flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Learn how families and educators can stay protected and fight misinformation.
As students and teachers head back into classrooms, families are thinking not only about school supplies and routines but also about health and safety. Viruses and diseases like COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and the flu remain part of our lives, and it is important to stay up to date on vaccine recommendations to keep children, educators and communities safe.
What Is Flu, COVID-19 and RSV, and Who Is Most Affected?
In a recent webinar with Drs. Dave Chokshi and Vin Gupta, Share My Lesson and AFT members explored how to stay safe this respiratory season and remain vigilant against vaccine misinformation. Here’s what you need to know heading into the school year:
What Is the Flu?
A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs, and can range from mild to severe illness. In some cases, it can lead to hospitalization or even death.
At-Risk Populations
- Children under 5, especially those under age 2
- Pregnant individuals
- People 65 and older
- Individuals with chronic health conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
- People with weakened immune systems
- Young children with neurological conditions or developmental delays.
What is COVID-19?
A respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. While many people experience mild symptoms like fever, cough or fatigue, others—especially those with underlying health conditions—can develop severe illness requiring hospitalization.
At-Risk Populations
- Older adults, especially those over 65
- People with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Unvaccinated individuals, including children under 6 months who are not yet eligible for vaccination
- Children with disabilities or complex medical needs, who may also face disruptions in care and education during outbreaks
What is RSV?
A respiratory virus that causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most individuals recover in a week or two, however, RSV can be serious for infants and older adults.
At-Risk Populations
- Infants under 6
- Children under 2 years with chronic lung or heart conditions
- Children with weakened immune systems
- Older adults, particularly those with chronic heart or lung disease
- Children with neuromuscular disorders, who may struggle to clear mucus from their airways
RFK Jr.’s Proposed Vaccine Policy Changes
Insurance Coverage
Current guidance suggests that vaccines will be covered in the same way they were last year. This means that most families should expect no significant changes when it comes to getting flu, COVID-19 or other recommended vaccines. However, as policies evolve, it’s a good idea to confirm coverage with your insurance provider before scheduling your appointments.
FDA Label vs. “Off-Label Use”
Current guidance suggests that vaccines such as COVID-19 will be recommended for at-risk populations. Any other use of a COVID-19 vaccine would be considered off label. Every vaccine and medication comes with an FDA label, which specifies use. Sometimes, doctors may recommend a vaccine “off label” if they believe there is a strong clinical reason for it. This practice is common in medicine and can be appropriate in certain cases. For adults who are not in the high-risk categories, off-label use could affect access to COVID-19 vaccines, depending on how federal recommendations shift. Drs. Chokshi and Gupta suggest that if your physician is not comfortable prescribing a vaccine off label, you may need to seek another provider who can address your specific needs.
Addressing Misinformation
Parents and teachers continue to face a wave of misinformation about vaccines. Trusted resources include:
- HealthyChildren.org (maintained by the American Academy of Pediatrics) provides parent- and teacher-friendly updates
- Immunize.org provides state vaccine schedules and school requirements.
All in All
COVID-19, flu and RSV immunizations remain safe and effective. Drs. Chokshi and Gupta encourage families and teachers to talk to their primary care provider about which vaccines may be right for them and stay informed as guidance continues to evolve for children and adults alike.
Vital Lessons: Health Chats with Dr. Vin Gupta
Join Dr. Vin Gupta—pulmonologist, public health expert, and professor—for a yearlong series offering expert-led webinars, blogs, resources, and Q&A sessions on pressing health issues to help AFT members and communities stay informed and healthy. Access all on-demand town halls and register for the next one.
Amanda Eisenberg is the editorial lead for The 80 Million, a Medicaid newsletter powered by Manatt Health. She also supports Dr. Vin Gupta in his work with the American Federation of Teachers. In her free time, Amanda enjoys walking around New York City and reading. She's also the author of PEOPLE... See More
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