By Dr. Julia Logan, CalPERS Chief Medical Officer
With the beginning of fall comes an increase in respiratory illnesses like colds, the flu, and COVID-19, making now the perfect time to protect yourself by getting updated vaccines.
Vaccines are one of the safest, most effective ways to protect your health, the health of your family, and community by preventing serious illness before it starts.
CalPERS will continue to cover vaccines for COVID-19, RSV, and the flu to support its members in making the best healthcare decisions for themselves and their families.
COVID-19
Currently, updated COVID vaccines for 2026-27 are available from Pfizer-BioNTech (for individuals 5 years and older), Moderna (6 months and older), or Novavax-Sanofi and Moderna (12 years and older).
Which CalPERS Members Are Eligible for the COVID Vaccine?
CalPERS and its health plans and pharmacy benefits manager partners continue to provide and cover without cost sharing the latest 2026-27 COVID-19 vaccine for any CalPERS members aged 6 months and older who choose it to reduce their risk of severe illness, in alignment with the California Department of Public Health and West Coast Health Alliance recommendations.
Flu
The flu vaccine has been updated for the 2026-27 season, and is still recommended annually for everyone 6 months of age and older who does not have contraindications. It is currently available as a shot or nasal spray.
For the best protection against the flu, the ideal time to get your flu shot is September or October.
RSV
Recommendations for respiratory syncytial virus or RSV have not changed significantly this year. RSV is still recommended for three main groups of individuals:
- Infants — RSV vaccination is recommended for infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during their first RSV season (typically October through March) and who are not protected by maternal RSV vaccination; it is also recommended for older infants aged 8 to 19 months who are at high risk for severe RSV.
- Pregnant Individuals — RSV vaccination is recommended for individuals who are 32 to 36 weeks pregnant during the RSV season, which provides immunity for the baby as well. It is best received from September to January.
- Older Adults — A one-time RSV vaccination is recommended for all adults 75 years and older, and for those 50 to 74 years at high risk for severe RSV. If you’ve received an RSV vaccine, you do not need another one at this time.
How Do I Get My Vaccines?
You can get your vaccines with your healthcare provider or through an in-network pharmacy here in California.
Please contact your health insurance plan if you encounter any difficulty in receiving the vaccine, or if you reside outside of California.