Recommendations for COVID-19 Vaccines in Infants, Children, and Adolescents, 2026-2027: Policy Statement

This policy statement updates the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for the use of COVID-19 vaccines in the prevention of severe COVID-19 in children. A review of evidence supporting these recommendations is in the accompanying technical report (https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2026-079046). These COVID-19 vaccine recommendations may change in future seasons or as additional variants emerge. The AAP recommends all infants and children 6 through 23 months of age who do not have contraindications receive 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine. The AAP also recommends a single dose of age-appropriate 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine for all children and adolescents 2 through 18 years of age at increased risk of severe COVID-19, regardless of prior COVID-19 vaccination status. Children 2 through 18 years of age not considered at increased risk of severe COVID-19 whose parent or guardian desires their protection from COVID-19 should be offered a single dose of age-appropriate 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine. Any available COVID-19 vaccine appropriate by age and health status can be administered and the most updated version of the COVID-19 vaccine that is available should be used.