BREAKING: WSJ Reports COVID Vax To Be Dropped From Routine Recommendations
Report is unconfirmed at press time. This is a developing story.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Thursday afternoon, May 15 that, according to “people familiar with the matter,” the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is preparing to withdraw its routine recommendation for COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant women, children, and teenagers.
Of note, as of 5:00 PM CST, Thursday, May 15, there has been no official confirmation of this policy change, insofar as ALPolitics.com can determine. Reuters has also begun reporting this story, based on the WSJ’s report of Thursday, May 15.
If true, this policy shift would align with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s longstanding vaccine skepticism. It is expected to coincide with the anticipated introduction of a new vaccine approval framework by the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA).
At present, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that all individuals aged six months and older receive COVID-19 vaccinations. The reported changes may remove these groups from the CDC's standard vaccination guidance, or suggest that individuals consult healthcare providers about the risks and benefits of vaccination.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary has indicated that the Agency plans to release updated vaccine approval guidelines soon. These new guidelines may require vaccine manufacturers to submit more comprehensive clinical data, including placebo-controlled studies, for new vaccine approvals.
Critics of the policy change express concern that it could discourage vaccinations among vulnerable populations. Richard Hughes, a vaccine advocate and attorney, warned that the move might influence individuals' decisions to get vaccinated, potentially impacting those who rely on herd immunity for protection.
Vaccination rates have already declined; as of April, only 13% of children and 14% of pregnant women had received the latest COVID-19 vaccine.
Secretary Kennedy's stance on vaccines has long been a subject of controversy. During a Congressional hearing on Thursday, May 14, he advised the public not to take medical advice from him, despite his role as Secretary of HHS.
This is a developing story.
