CDC Says Kids May Still Receive COVID Vaccines Amid Mixed Messaging

Earlier this week, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the CDC would no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for healthy children and healthy pregnant women, leaving many parents and health organizations worried. Would the vaccine still be available for kids? Would it be covered by insurance?

Just days later, on May 29, the CDC reassured families with an updated guidance that offers clarity and support. The new guidance now states: “If a parent desires their healthy child to be vaccinated, their decision should be based on informed consent through the clinical judgment of their healthcare provider.” Simply put, if a parent wants their child to be vaccinated, they can consult with their doctor and still have the vaccine covered by insurance.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) welcomed the clarification, expressing relief after a week of mixed messages. “This means many children and adolescents can access a vaccine to protect them from some of the serious complications of this disease, including long Covid,” AAP President Dr. Susan J. Kressly said in a statement.

The updated COVID vaccine guidance applies to children aged 6 months to 17 years who are not immunocompromised. The vaccine is still strongly recommended for children at higher risk, such as those with weakened immune systems. As the CDC continues to refine its guidance, both the CDC and AAP emphasize the importance of conversations with healthcare providers to help parents make informed decisions about their child’s health.

Looking ahead, the AAP remains concerned about the future of immunizations. “However, the deeply flawed process to reach the recommendation raises serious concerns about the stability of the nation’s immunization infrastructure and commitment by federal leaders to make sure families can access critical immunizations, whether for Covid or other infectious diseases," Kressly said.