Illinois Issues New COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations
Illinois has released its own set of recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccines, encouraging both adults and many children to receive the shots. This marks a departure from the guidance offered by the federal government.
This announcement followed a unanimous vote from the Illinois Department of Public Health Immunization Advisory Committee, which proposed that all residents aged 18 and older should get updated COVID-19 vaccines. The committee further recommended vaccinations for children between 6 and 23 months, as well as for kids aged 2 to 17 who are at higher risk or whose parents wish for them to be vaccinated.
The state acted in accordance with the committee’s decision.
“While the federal government is missing in action on providing clear, science-based guidance, Illinois is stepping up,” stated Governor JB Pritzker in a recent release. “Our state will equip healthcare providers and families with the necessary information and access to protect against illness.”
The Illinois Department of Public Health also issued a standing order, permitting healthcare providers and pharmacists throughout the state to administer vaccines consistent with these new recommendations.
Vaccines must be covered by federal and state-regulated insurance plans. Additionally, most of the major private insurers in the country have indicated they will continue to cover the vaccine costs for patients.
Illinois is one of several states adopting independent stances on COVID-19 vaccines this year, especially following the firing and replacement of all members of a federal vaccine advisory committee. Changes at the federal level have introduced some confusion regarding eligibility for updated COVID-19 vaccines.
Last week, the federal committee decided against recommending COVID-19 vaccines, leaving the choice to individuals.
In a statement on Tuesday, Andrew Nixon, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, remarked, “Democrat-run states that enforced unscientific lockdowns and mandates have significantly diminished trust in public health agencies. The federal advisory committee remains the main scientific authority guiding immunization recommendations, and we will base our policies on sound science and evidence, rather than the politics seen during the pandemic.”
Alongside its COVID-19 vaccine push, the Illinois Department of Public Health also advocated for flu vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older.
Furthermore, the department recommended RSV vaccines for pregnant individuals between 32 and 36 weeks, infants under 8 months whose mothers have not been vaccinated, children aged 8 to 19 months at increased risk, adults aged 50 to 74 who are at higher risk, and all individuals 75 years and older. RSV typically results in mild, cold-like symptoms, but infants and older adults may experience more severe cases.
Lastly, the state health department advised that residents continue to adhere to CDC-immunization schedules for both children and adults as of August 7, 2025, prior to the latest federal vaccine committee meeting.
