CDC Ends Routine COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations for Healthy Children and Pregnant Women

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that it will no longer recommend routine COVID-19 vaccinations for healthy children and pregnant women. This decision was made public by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who stated that the move aligns with efforts to “Make America Healthy Again.”

Kennedy clarified that the vaccine would no longer be recommended for “healthy pregnant women,” though specifics about eligibility were not provided. The CDC has previously identified pregnancy as a condition that increases the risk of severe complications from COVID-19.

This policy shift follows an announcement by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary last week, which revealed plans to limit COVID-19 vaccine recommendations to older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

Future COVID-19 vaccines for healthy individuals will need to undergo lengthy placebo-controlled clinical trials before receiving approval.

Kennedy, a long-time opponent of various vaccines, including those for COVID-19, has previously filed a petition requesting the FDA to revoke vaccine authorizations and has described COVID-19 vaccines as the “deadliest vaccine ever made,” citing concerns over rare cases of myocarditis. However, research indicates that the risk of myocarditis is higher from COVID-19 infection itself.

Under Kennedy’s leadership, the FDA approved Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine earlier this month but restricted its use to individuals aged 65 and older and those with at least one risk factor for severe illness.

While COVID-19 vaccines are not mandated in the U.S., health experts caution that many individuals—including those with previous COVID-19 infections—remain at risk for severe illness. This risk is particularly pronounced for older adults, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women.

During the peak of the pandemic, pregnant women faced a surge in hospitalizations and critical cases due to COVID-19 infections. Changes in the immune system during pregnancy heighten the risk of severe complications, including pneumonia. A study by Brown University found that maternal mortality rates increased during the pandemic.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) expressed deep disappointment with the CDC’s decision, emphasizing the risks that COVID-19 poses to pregnant women and newborns. ACOG highlighted the crucial role of maternal antibodies from vaccination in protecting infants.

Despite the CDC’s announcement, its website as of Tuesday afternoon continued to recommend COVID-19 vaccination for everyone aged six months and older.

The potential withdrawal of recommendations raises concerns about insurance coverage. The CDC’s guidance significantly influences insurance coverage decisions, including those under Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers. While vaccines are typically free through these channels, changes in recommendations could lead to decreased access and increased costs.

Experts warn that restricting COVID-19 vaccine recommendations could result in limited availability of vaccines this fall, especially if new clinical trials are required. The FDA’s vaccine advisory committee is currently assessing which strains should be included in upcoming booster shots.

Although there are no signs of an imminent summer surge in cases, the CDC continues to monitor emerging variants, including LP.8.1, which accounted for 70% of cases as of May 10.

Concerns also remain about the financial implications of these changes, particularly for uninsured children who rely on the Vaccines for Children Program and for families affected by cuts in healthcare funding.

Dr. Paul Offit from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and other health experts have criticized the changes, warning that limiting access to vaccines could lead to higher costs, reduced availability, and lower uptake rates.