CDC says healthy children may get COVID vaccine, contradicting RFK Jr.
3 minute readPublished: Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 12:06 am
CDC Reverses Course, Allows COVID-19 Vaccines for Healthy Children, Sparking Controversy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its guidelines, now stating that healthy children aged six months and older "may receive" a COVID-19 vaccine. This shift directly contradicts a previous directive from Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who had indicated the agency would stop recommending the shots for healthy children.
The CDC's updated guidance emphasizes "shared clinical decision-making," meaning vaccination decisions should be made in consultation with a child's doctor and based on parental preference. This change also ensures that health insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid plans will continue to cover the vaccines for children.
The move has ignited debate. Kennedy's initial announcement, which cited concerns about the risks of the vaccine for healthy children and pregnant women, was met with criticism from medical professionals. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists expressed concerns that Kennedy's directive undermined public trust in vaccination policies.
The CDC's revised stance also addresses the vaccination of pregnant women. While the previous guidelines recommended COVID-19 vaccines for all pregnant adults, the new language lists vaccines during pregnancy as "No Guidance/Not Applicable." This contradicts information still available on the CDC website, which states that the benefits of vaccination during pregnancy outweigh any potential risks.
The situation has raised questions about the decision-making process within federal health agencies. Some experts, like Richard Hughes IV, a vaccine law professor, have criticized the approach, suggesting a lack of thorough consideration. The HHS also recently canceled contracts with Moderna worth $766 million for developing and testing vaccines for potential future pandemics.
The FDA has approved Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine, using more traditional protein-based technology, but with age restrictions. Approximately 23% of U.S. adults are up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccines, while the rate for children aged 6 months to 18 is estimated at 13%.
BNN's Perspective: This situation highlights the ongoing complexities surrounding COVID-19 vaccine recommendations. While the CDC's revised guidelines offer flexibility and emphasize the importance of doctor-patient consultation, the conflicting messaging and rapid changes can erode public trust. A balanced approach that prioritizes both individual health decisions and the broader public health goals is crucial.
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