CDC opens state ordering for COVID-19 vaccines after unexplained delay
Health department previously blamed delay on "not yet finalized procurement decisions."
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has finally opened the ordering process for the upcoming COVID-19 vaccines for low-income children, following a nearly month-long delay, according to the US health department. Despite the vaccines receiving approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late August, states were unable to place orders through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
The department has not yet provided a clear explanation for the delay, which has raised concerns about potential interference from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his anti-vaccine stance. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirmed on Wednesday that the CDC had not yet finalized procurement decisions for the vaccines.
The department emphasized that they are committed to responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources and ensuring that vaccines purchased through federally funded programs are appropriate for the populations they serve.
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