West Coast Health Alliance issues immunization recommendations for 2026-2027
The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) is issuing immunization recommendations for the 2026-27 respiratory virus season.
WCHA reports these recommendations are informed by guidance from trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Family Physicians.
“As we enter the 2026-27 respiratory virus season, we recommend the recently available updated vaccine formulations to reduce the risk of severe illness,” said Hawai‘i State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble. “We also continue to recommend other steps, such as practicing good hygiene and staying home when sick, to help people stay healthy, especially as we’re experiencing an increase in cases.”
Immunization is one of the best protections available against serious illness caused by respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Seasonal immunization is also a critical public health tool to reduce serious illness and strain on health care systems.
The WCHA believes that all recommended immunizations should be accessible to people in its member states. WCHA emphasizes the importance of protecting people most impacted by these respiratory viruses, especially those who are most vulnerable. This includes the youngest and oldest individuals; people at higher risk for complications, including people who are pregnant; individuals living in congregate settings; and people who live or work with those at higher risk.
The WCHA will continue to evaluate new evidence and recommendations as they become available and is committed to sharing updated assessments with communities.
Specifically, WCHA recommends:
- COVID-19 vaccine is available for persons 6 months and older.
- Two doses given at least 4 weeks apart are recommended for ages 6 months–8 years who are getting flu vaccine for the first time.
- Protect infants with either prenatal RSV vaccine or infant dose of nirsevimab or clesrovimab.
- RSV vaccination during pregnancy or for adults is currently recommended once rather than annually.
The West Coast Health Alliance is a partnership among California, Hawaiʻi, Oregon and Washington, to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by safety, efficacy, transparency, access and trust.
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