RFK Jr.'s CDC isn’t letting states order COVID-19 shots for kids, blocking access
Summary
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is delaying the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines for children through a key federal program. This delay affects states that rely on the Vaccines for Children program, which provides free vaccines to many eligible kids. The delay comes under the leadership of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).Key Facts
- The CDC has not allowed states to order this season's COVID-19 vaccines for children through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
- The VFC program provides free vaccines to uninsured, underinsured, Medicaid-eligible, and Indigenous children, covering about 52% of US children.
- Eleven states and one US territory use a universal vaccine purchase program to buy vaccines for all children regardless of insurance.
- The delay means these states cannot get vaccines for their children on time.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who leads HHS, has a history of opposing COVID-19 vaccines and spreading false claims about their safety.
- Kennedy previously tried to stop the FDA from authorizing COVID-19 vaccines and promoted drugs not proven to work against COVID-19.
- Current CDC guidance allows COVID-19 vaccines for children aged 6 months to 17 years through shared decision-making and recommends vaccination for children with weak immune systems.
- Medical groups recommend COVID-19 vaccination for children as part of their flu and virus season immunization schedule.
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