Against the advise of most experts in the health and infectious disease sector the Trump administration is changing government guidelines for who should get the COVID-19 vaccine. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced in a video message on Tuesday that the CDC will no longer recommend the COVID vaccine for healthy kids or pregnant women.
“The COVID vaccine for healthy children and healthy pregnant women has been removed from the CDC recommended immunization schedule,” Kennedy said
The decision contradicts advice from pediatricians and OB-GYNs, who warn it could lead to increased COVID risks for vulnerable populations. Dr. Tina Tan, a pediatric infectious disease expert, criticized the change as dangerous, citing serious complications seen in both children and pregnant patients during the pandemic. Critics warn the reversal will also reduce access to vaccines by impacting insurance coverage and supply.
Without CDC endorsement, the cost of the COVID vaccine may no longer be covered under programs such as Vaccines for Children or Medicaid, placing a financial burden on families. Prices can range from $57 to nearly $200 per dose. The near term impact is insurance may no longer cover the vaccination for those wanting it and it will no longer be provided for free for at risk populations and individuals without Federal backing.
The New Mexico Department of Health will follow this protocol “as of now,” officials said.
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