What's Going on With Fall COVID and Flu Shots?

As the fall season approaches, both the FDA and CDC are yet to provide their input on recommended respiratory virus vaccines. This delay comes amid controversies over vaccination sparked by the previous administration. The FDA released recommendations for flu and COVID vaccines in March and May respectively, and also approved two COVID vaccines. However, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has not yet convened its meetings.

Normally, after vaccines receive FDA approval, ACIP convenes and provides guidance on their usage. This includes determining which vaccines are suitable for different age groups and whether additional doses are required for immunocompromised individuals. However, ACIP has not held its March or June meetings this year. Despite this, medical organizations such as the IDSA, AAP, AAFP, and AMA have released interim guidance on fall respiratory virus vaccines. The Trump administration has also attempted to alter the pediatric immunization schedule.

Insurers have assured that all recommended vaccines will be covered without cost-sharing through the end of 2027. However, the first mRNA flu shot from Moderna was recently approved by the FDA and is expected to be available for the 2026-2027 season. Yet, it remains uncertain if this will be incorporated into vaccine recommendations. The decision made by a federal court in March to uphold the original vaccination schedule and restore ACIP members has prevented changes to pediatric vaccine recommendations.

The lack of official guidance has raised concerns about potential impacts on vaccine uptake. Experts worry that confusion might deter people from getting vaccinated, leading to lower vaccination rates. The AAFP has cautioned that efforts to undermine vaccine safety and efficacy pose serious risks to children and families. The real worry is that people might avoid vaccines due to the confusion, according to Dr. Munoz, a pediatric infectious disease specialist.