Protecting Children During the 2025–26 Respiratory Virus Season

At Forest Lane Pediatrics, we believe that all children should have access to updated Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines this season, just as they have in the past. Vaccination remains the best and safest way to prevent serious illness and complications from these viruses.

Influenza Vaccination

Influenza vaccination is the most effective tool we have to protect children from flu and its complications. A 2017 study published in Pediatrics found that the flu vaccine:

• Reduced the risk of flu-associated death by 65% in healthy children
• Reduced the risk by 51% in children with underlying high-risk conditions

During the 2024–25 flu season, the CDC reported 267 influenza-related pediatric deaths, and more than 40% of those occurred in children without high-risk conditions.

With these data in mind, we support the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) recommendation that all children six months and older receive the annual flu vaccine, unless they have a medical reason not to.

• Availability: Injectable flu vaccines are already in stock at our office.
• Nasal spray flu vaccines: In stock at our office.
• Timing: Experts recommend getting the flu vaccine before the end of October.
• Special dosing: Some children under nine years of age may need two doses given at least 28 days apart. Your child’s doctor will let you know if this applies to them.

COVID-19 Vaccination

The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for children six months and older on Aug. 27, 2025. While there is some conflicting advice about who should receive them, we align with the AAP’s guidance:

• Children 6–23 months: All should receive the updated COVID vaccine this fall. Children under 24 months remain the highest-risk pediatric age group for severe illness, hospitalization and death.
  • Children in this age group who have never received a COVID vaccine will need two doses at least 28 days apart.
• Children 2–18 years: A single updated COVID vaccine dose is recommended for those in the following groups:
  • Children at high risk of severe COVID-19
  • Children with household contacts at high risk
  • Children who have never been vaccinated against COVID-19
  • Residents of long-term care or congregate settings
  • Children whose parents/guardians choose vaccination after consulting their pediatrician

Check FAQs on COVID-19 Vaccines from the AAP here.

How to Schedule

To schedule your child’s flu vaccine:

• CLICK HERE
• Choose “Vaccine Clinic” as the PROVIDER and VISIT TYPE to view available appointment times.

You can also schedule directly from our website:

• Select “Schedule Appointment”
• Click “Returning Patient”
• Choose your preferred location
• Select “Vaccine Clinic” as the provider and appointment type

Moving Forward

We are committed to helping families navigate the 2025–26 respiratory virus season with confidence. Vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 remains the safest and most effective way to protect children from serious illness. 

If you have questions about your child’s vaccine needs, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.