Influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 Vaccines: Effectiveness, Safety, and Trust in 2026

Respiratory virus vaccine effectiveness and safety for influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 are reviewed, including new evidence, risks, and recommendations. JAMA Deputy Editor Preeti Malani, MD, MSJ, speaks with Rochelle Walensky, MD, MPH, professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and former CDC Director, about vaccine data, public trust, and the 2026 respiratory virus season. Related Content: Respiratory Season Virus Vaccines RSV Immunization Effectiveness and Safety for the 2026-2027 Respiratory Season Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness and Safety for the 2026-2027 Respiratory Season COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness and Safety for the 2026-2027 Respiratory Season