The Maryland Department of Health released the 2026-2027 vaccine schedules and recommendations for Maryland’s children and adults as respiratory virus season approaches.
There are no new mandates, nor are there any changes to requirements for school entry for Maryland students.
The year’s recommendations are based on the latest evidence and guidance from medical associations. The Moore-Miller administration has committed to protecting vaccine access and preventing disease outbreak wherever possible. Gov. Wes Moore signed the Vax Act into law this spring to codify this commitment.
Before the Vax Act, the department issued standing orders and educational materials only when there were changes in vaccine policy at the federal level. The new law empowers the Maryland Health Secretary to set the state’s own official recommendations for immunizations, screening and preventive services based on science and clinical guidance.
This new authority helps the Moore-Miller administration keep essential vaccines free, accessible, and convenient. Healthcare professionals can practice with clear standards. The state can require insurers to cover all routine state-recommended immunizations with zero out-of-pocket costs. Finally, the Vax Act enables pharmacists to give the recommended vaccines to anyone aged three and older without a prescription.
“We recognize Marylanders are facing back-to-school germs and the upcoming respiratory virus season, all while navigating shifting vaccine guidance from the federal government,” said Dr. Meena Seshamani, Maryland Health Secretary. “Through the Vax Act and our Maryland recommendations, we are reaffirming our commitment to high-quality, accessible care rooted in science and giving families peace of mind that essential vaccinations are safe and will remain affordable and available right in their communities.”
The 2026-2027 vaccine guidelines are based on recommendations from leading, independent expert medical organizations. These include the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). The department’s recommendations are meant to be for the public’s education, easily accessed and understood. They are available for free online and as printable PDFs.
The department recommends vaccinating against COVID-19, flu, and RSV, which are seasonal respiratory viruses that can cause severe disease leading to hospitalization or death. Maryland health officials also still stress the importance of routine immunizations, including the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and the hepatitis B vaccine, beginning with the birth dose.
“At the Maryland Department of Health, our goal is to provide clear, clinically-backed information that allows both providers and residents to make the best health decisions for themselves and their families,” said Dr. Meg Sullivan, deputy secretary for Public Health Services. “Vaccines remain essential to protecting ourselves, our families and our communities against preventable illnesses. MDH encourages people to speak with their healthcare providers about what is right for them.”
Maryland continues to have high vaccination rates, with more than 96% of kindergarten students reportedly consistently vaccinated. Uninsured or underinsured Marylanders can get the recommended vaccines for no cost through the Maryland Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program and the Maryland Vaccine Program.
