AAP Advocates for Wider Covid-19 Vaccine Access for Infants and Children, Bucking CDC Recommendations

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has revised its vaccine guidelines, now advocating for Covid-19 vaccinations for infants and young children, contrary to the current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The AAP’s new stance diverges from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which underwent a transformation this year, replacing members with individuals who have previously propagated vaccine misinformation.

In contrast to the CDC’s suggestion that decisions regarding Covid-19 vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 17 years should be based on shared clinical judgment, the AAP offers more definitive advice. For children aged between 6 and 23 months, a Covid-19 vaccine is recommended, unless there are known allergies to the vaccine or its components. For children aged 2 to 18 years who are at high risk of contracting Covid-19, reside in long-term care facilities, have not been vaccinated against Covid-19 previously, or live with high-risk individuals, a single dose of the vaccine is advised. The AAP also advocates for making the vaccine available to this age group even if they fall under these risk categories.

However, accessibility to the vaccine may pose challenges in the fall. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) might restrict future Covid-19 vaccines to older individuals and those at high risk of severe infection, potentially not renewing authorization for Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine for children below 5 years old.

Beyond Covid-19 vaccinations, the AAP has also updated recommendations for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza (flu) vaccines, among over ten other immunizations.

Dr. Susan J. Kressly, AAP President, emphasized in a news release that “the AAP will continue to provide vaccine recommendations grounded in science and prioritizing the health of infants, children, and adolescents.” She further highlighted the importance of routine childhood immunizations in maintaining the health, well-being, and success of children, families, and their communities.