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CDC no longer recommends routine COVID vaccination for healthy kids, pregnant patients

May 27, 2025

In a notable policy shift, CDC no longer recommends COVID-19 vaccination for healthy children and healthy pregnant patients as part of routine immunization schedules. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the update today on X. NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya called the move “common sense and good science,” and RFK Jr., concluded that there's a lack of clinical data supporting repeat boosters in children. FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary added, “Most countries have stopped recommending it for children.” The decision, reportedly made without input from CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—whose next meeting is still pending—could significantly impact access. Without CDC endorsement, insurers might decline coverage, making it harder for families and pregnant individuals to obtain the vaccine. As of 3 p.m. ET May 27th, neither CDC nor HHS had issued a formal press release.

Sources:

Kennedy, Robert F. Jr. (@RobertKennedyJr). X. “The CDC has quietly removed COVID-19 shots from the childhood and pregnancy immunization schedules. This is a victory for medical freedom and informed consent.” Posted 24 May 2025. https://x.com/seckennedy/status/1927368440811008138.

Lovelace Jr., B et al. (2025, May 27). NBC News. CDC ends Covid vaccine recommendation for healthy kids and pregnant women. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/covid-vaccine-kids-pregnant-women-cdc-recommendation-rfk-jr-rcna207312

Stein, R. (2025, May 27). NPR. RFK Jr. says COVID shots no longer recommended for kids, pregnant women. https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/05/27/nx-s1-5413179/covid-vaccine-children-pregnant-rfk-cdc