US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that COVID-19 booster shots are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women. The decision, made public through social media, bypassed the usual consultation process of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and has been criticized by legal experts and medical professionals. Kennedy, appointed by the Trump administration, claimed that the change was due to a lack of clinical data supporting repeated booster shots for these groups. Flanked by FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary and NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, Kennedy stated that the update aligns with "common sense and good science." Experts argue that the move is unprecedented and could weaken vaccine accessibility and insurance coverage. The CDC website still recommends booster shots, with no indication that the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has reviewed or voted on the change. Health authorities warn that the announcement undermines trust in the process and could have legal consequences. Pregnant women are at increased risk from COVID-19, and infants under six months are among the most vulnerable individuals. The World Health Organization is monitoring a new variant, NB.1.8.1, which has spread to at least 22 countries and is causing an increase in hospitalizations in parts of Asia. While not more severe, it is more transmissible. Current vaccines are still considered effective, but the new approval pathways could delay access for broader population groups. Critics say the change could lead to confusion and reduce protection for vulnerable individuals.
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