C.D.C. Stands Firm on COVID Vaccine Guidance for Kids Despite Kennedy’s Claims

Days after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the removal of Covid shots from the federal immunization schedule for kids, the CDC issued new guidance. They keep Covid vaccines on the schedule for children ages 6 months to 17 years. However, now parents and caregivers can decide with their doctors if they want to proceed—a process the CDC calls “shared decision-making.”

This means about 38 million low-income children who rely on the Vaccines for Children program will still have access to these vaccines. This guidance creates uncertainty for pregnant women, a group previously seen as high-risk for severe Covid outcomes. Currently, the CDC has “no guidance” for pregnant women on Covid shots. Kennedy’s recent announcement also took away the recommendation for them to be vaccinated.

Experts are concerned. Dr. Michelle Fiscus, a pediatrician and medical officer at the Association of Immunization Managers, anticipated a recommendation for pregnant women, especially those with additional health risks. Just days ago, the CDC advised everyone over 6 months should be vaccinated against Covid. Now, it’s unclear for pregnant women, who were once a focus of vaccination efforts.

In response to Kennedy’s announcement, Andrew Nixon, a spokesman for Health and Human Services, clarified that the previous vaccine recommendations for healthy children and pregnant women were indeed removed from the CDC schedule. Nixon emphasized the importance of discussions between patients and doctors in making medical decisions.

This shift in guidance reflects a larger trend in health discussions. According to a recent study from the Kaiser Family Foundation, nearly 70% of pregnant women surveyed support vaccination against Covid. Many are seeking clarity from healthcare providers in a time of changing recommendations.

It’s crucial for anyone—especially vulnerable groups like pregnant women—to stay informed and discuss health decisions with trusted providers. Each decision impacts not just individuals, but community health as well. As the situation evolves, staying updated is essential.



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Children and Childhood,Vaccination and Immunization,Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,Kennedy, Robert F Jr