COVID-19 Vaccination Vote Creates New Barrier; Lung Association Reiterates Strong Support for Widespread Vaccination

Today, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) announced new guidance for COVID-19 vaccination. In response, Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, issued the following statement:

“Today, ACIP voted to maintain access to COVID-19 vaccination for everyone six months and older but added a barrier to people getting vaccinated. They changed from recommending widespread vaccination to recommending shared clinical decision-making (a discussion between a patient or caregiver and their healthcare provider) be added to the adult and childhood vaccination schedules. This change adds a burden and causes confusion, and no science was presented to support this action.            

“The American Lung Association strongly supports widespread vaccination, which is crucial for public health and this is especially true for respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.
 
“COVID-19 is still a significant public health threat, and vaccination is the best way to help keep parents at work, kids at school and families healthy. From October 1, 2024, through September 13 of this year, there were 370,000-530,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations and up to 61,000 deaths. 

“The evidence-based, transparent process for developing these recommendations has been disrupted. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has long been recognized for its rigorous scientific review and open deliberations. Unlike previous ACIP meetings, recent proceedings did not provide votes in advance, limiting the opportunity for public comment and scientific discussion. It is essential that ACIP return to its established role as a trusted, evidence-based body where careful analysis of the data and peer-reviewed science guide decision-making.

“We continue to urge that everyone over six months get vaccinated for COVID-19. As long as today’s votes are ratified by the acting CDC director, the COVID-19 vaccine will be covered for most people without any cost.”