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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for healthy children and pregnant women. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the decision on Tuesday (May 27), bypassing the usual advisory panel process. Previously, the CDC had advised vaccinations for everyone six months and older, including pregnant women. However, Kennedy, a long-time critic of COVID vaccines, emphasized the lack of clinical data supporting the booster strategy for children.
According to Politico, the decision aligns with global practices regarding children's vaccination but diverges on recommendations for pregnant women. The move has sparked controversy, with some experts questioning the process and potential impacts on vaccine access. Dr. Rich Besser, former acting CDC director, warned this could affect insurance coverage and exclude the vaccine from the Vaccines for Children program.
The announcement comes as most Americans have stopped getting COVID vaccines. Recent CDC data shows that only about one in eight children under 18 have received the latest shot. Despite the decision, the World Health Organization still recommends the vaccine for pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and children with comorbidities.
The FDA will limit routine COVID vaccine approvals to seniors and those with underlying conditions. The CDC advisory panel will meet in June to discuss recommendations for fall vaccinations.