Fall 2025 Respiratory Vaccine Guide (Flu, COVID-19, RSV) — A Friendly Plan for Older Adults
You don’t need a medical degree (or a second browser tab) to figure out this year’s shots. You just need a clear, gentle plan that fits your life. Below is the quick version for the U.S. and Canada, followed by the “why,” the timing, and simple booking links.
TL;DR: You’ll likely need one flu shot, one COVID-19 update, and a one-time RSV shot if you’re 75+ (or 50–74 with risk factors in the U.S./per your provider’s advice in Canada). Aim for September–October for flu, and get COVID at the same visit if you’re due. For 65+, ask for high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant flu vaccine. Book at your pharmacy or local clinic—links below
Your simple checklist
- Flu (influenza): If you’re 65+, ask for one of the preferred options:
- High-dose inactivated (HD-IIV), adjuvanted (aIIV), or recombinant (RIV)—whichever your pharmacy has. If none are available, get any age-appropriate flu vaccine. Best timing: September–October, but later is still worthwhile.
- COVID-19: If you’re due for the updated 2025–26 vaccine, get it. In the U.S., CDC uses shared clinical decision-making for most adults now (broader access at pharmacies); in Canada, NACI recommends vaccination for adults 65+ and those at higher risk, with guidance on whether some groups should receive two doses per year. You can get it with your flu shot—same visit, different arms.
- RSV:
- U.S.: One-time RSV vaccine is recommended for all adults 75+ and for 50–74 who are at increased risk (e.g., chronic heart/lung disease, immunocompromise, nursing-home residence).
- Canada: A single dose is recommended for 75+ and for 60+ living in long-term care; 50–74 may consider it with their clinician based on risk.
If you like to keep things super simple: Book a single pharmacy visit in October and take care of flu + COVID together; if you’re in the RSV-eligible group and haven’t had it yet, ask about getting that scheduled as well. (Spacing is fine too—do what feels best for your body and calendar.)
Why these three matter (in plain language)
- Flu hits older adults harder. For 65+, the immune system needs a stronger nudge—hence the high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant options. These are preferred for older adults because they generally stimulate a better response.
- COVID-19 hasn’t clocked out. Guidance has shifted to individualized decisions, but the goal is the same: reduce severe illness and hospitalization, especially for older adults and those with chronic conditions. Pharmacies can assess you quickly at the counter.
- RSV can be serious in older adults. The one-time adult RSV vaccines target a virus that often looks like a “bad chest cold” but can lead to pneumonia and hospitalization. Eligibility differs slightly between the U.S. and Canada (details below).
Best timing (and how to think about it)
- Flu: For most adults who need one dose, target September–October so protection lasts into winter peaks. If you miss October, get it later—it still helps while viruses circulate.
- COVID-19: Time your dose when you’re due (ask your pharmacist if unsure). Coordinating with your flu visit is fine; some experts suggest October for convenience and prolonged coverage into winter.
- Co-administration: Getting flu and COVID together is okay (different arms), with safety data supporting this; some people have slightly milder side effects when co-administered. RSV can also be co-administered—discuss with your provider if you prefer spacing a week or two.
Pro tip: If you’ve got a big trip, surgery, or a family gathering coming up, schedule shots 2–3 weeks ahead so you’ve built protection and sailed past any short-term side effects (sore arm, fatigue).
What exactly to ask for at the counter
Flu (for 65+)
“Do you have one of the preferred options for older adults—high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant?” If they’re out, say yes to any age-appropriate flu vaccine so you aren’t left unprotected. (Don’t chase brands across town.)
COVID-19
“Am I due for the updated 2025–26 dose?” In the U.S., you and the pharmacist will decide together (shared clinical decision-making). In Canada, 65+ and higher-risk groups are clearly recommended; others may receive a dose based on risk and preference.
RSV
- U.S.: “I’m 75+—I need the one-time RSV shot,” or “I’m 50–74 with [risk factor]—am I eligible?” Available brands include Arexvy, Abrysvo, and mResvia (your pharmacist will match by age/eligibility).
- Canada: “I’m 75+ (or 60+ in long-term care)—can we book the single-dose RSV vaccine?” Adults 50–74 can consider vaccination with their provider if risks are higher.
Side effects & comfort tips
- Common: Sore arm, mild fatigue, headache, low fever—usually 1–3 days.
- Make it easier: Hydrate, plan a light day, and consider different arms if you’re getting two vaccines.
- When to call: If symptoms worry you or persist beyond a few days, contact your clinician or pharmacist.
Where to book
- United States: Use Vaccines.gov to find pharmacies for flu/COVID/RSV near you; or call 1-800-232-0233. Veterans can also check the VA locator. Vaccines
- Canada: Start with your province/territory or local public health; many provinces (like BC) send Get Vaccinated invitations or list clinic finders. National info on flu clinics is also available. Canada.ca
Practical FAQs
Can I get all three (flu, COVID, RSV) in one day?
You can get flu + COVID together. For RSV, many people choose to space it (e.g., a week or two later) to better track side effects, but your pharmacist can co-administer if appropriate and available. Do what feels best for your comfort and schedule.
Which flu brand is “best” for seniors?
There’s no single winner. For 65+, the type matters more than the brand—ask for high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant. If a preferred option isn’t available today, get what’s available rather than waiting weeks.
What if I’m homebound or don’t drive?
In the U.S., call the Aging Network/Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) to find help with rides and mobile clinics.
In Canada, contact your local public health unit or provincial booking lines for accessible options and community clinics.
Does it still help if I’m getting vaccinated “late”?
Yes. Flu and COVID circulate through winter; late is better than never.
Sources & references (key links)
- Flu (U.S.): ACIP summary & 2025–26 recommendations; timing guidance. CDC+2CDC+2
- Flu (Canada): NACI 2025–26 seasonal influenza statement + summary. Canada.ca+1
- COVID-19 (U.S.): Coverage/access and shared clinical decision-making updates (news explainer aligned with CDC policy); adult schedule page. Reuters+1
- COVID-19 (Canada): NACI 2025–26 guidance (who should get vaccinated, who may need two doses per year). Canada.ca
- RSV (U.S.): CDC adult RSV guidance (who should get it; available products). CDC
- RSV (Canada): Canadian Immunization Guide—RSV in older adults (eligibility by age/setting; brand nuances). Canada.ca
- Co-administration & timing help: CDC flu/COVID co-administration; expert timing rationale for October. CDC+1
- Where to book: Vaccines.gov (U.S.); Canada flu clinic info and provincial booking examples (BC). Vaccines+2Canada.ca+2
If this helped, take five minutes to book your shots, then cue up the Beyond Retirement podcast: listen to past episodes, get ready for the new season, and suggest guests. We’re interviewing retirees about expectations vs. reality—your story (or your neighbour’s) could help someone have a healthier, happier season.
