The Trump administration, under the leadership of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is reportedly planning to end routine recommendations for COVID-19 vaccinations in children and pregnant women. This decision marks a significant shift from the blanket-vaccine approach that was prominent during the early stages of the pandemic. While the exact nature of the change—whether it involves dropping the recommendation entirely or merely ceasing to promote it universally—is unclear, the move is expected to undermine previous public health initiatives like Operation Warp Speed.
Critics of the move told the Wall Street Journal that this shift could discourage vaccination and leave immunocompromised individuals more vulnerable. Supporters, however, argue that the change brings policy back in line with scientific and common-sense principles. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), led by Kennedy, is reportedly revising CDC guidance, which previously recommended that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive the vaccine. This decision raises questions about the future of vaccine programs and whether insurers will continue to cover the shots.