RFK Jr. & COVID Vaccines: Facts & Claims
- Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services secretary, has removed the COVID vaccine from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) recommended immunization schedule for healthy pregnant...
- The change does not directly prevent anyone from receiving the COVID vaccine,but it could create cost barriers.
- Experts have noted that Kennedy's decision appears to circumvent the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has controversially removed the COVID vaccine recommendation for pregnant women and children, a move sparking immediate concerns.This decision, announced Tuesday, could limit vaccine access due too potential cost barriers, according to the latest reports. Experts also indicate this action circumvents standard CDC protocols, raising further questions about public health policy. Kennedy’s history of anti-vaccine advocacy fuels anxieties over the politicization of health recommendations. Without the CDC’s backing, the COVID vaccine could become harder to obtain. This shift might impact vaccination rates and overall health outcomes. Find the latest updates from News Directory 3 on this quickly-evolving situation. Discover what’s next as officials monitor the long-term implications, and stay informed about this critical health growth.
RFK Jr. Removes COVID Vaccine Recommendation for Pregnant Women, Children
Updated may 28, 2025
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services secretary, has removed the COVID vaccine from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommended immunization schedule for healthy pregnant people and children. The announcement, made Tuesday, is raising concerns about vaccine availability and the potential politicization of public health.
The change does not directly prevent anyone from receiving the COVID vaccine,but it could create cost barriers. Insurers typically cover recommended vaccines. Without the recommendation, the vaccine, which can cost around $140, may not be covered.
Experts have noted that Kennedy’s decision appears to circumvent the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. COVID vaccine recommendations were already under review, but this announcement bypassed standard policy processes.
Pregnancy can lead to elevated risks from Covid-19, and very young babies (who can be protected if their mother is vaccinated during pregnancy) also have higher rates of hospitalization.
kennedy has a history of anti-vaccine advocacy. This decision to alter recommendations around the COVID vaccine without full input from nonpartisan experts at the CDC represents a concerning politicization of public health, one that could have health consequences for Americans. The removal of the COVID vaccine recommendation could impact public health and vaccine access.
What’s next
The long-term effects of this policy change remain to be seen, but public health officials are closely monitoring the situation to assess any potential impact on vaccination rates and overall health outcomes.