The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued updated annual immunization recommendations that conflict with current CDC guidelines by recommending the inclusion of the COVID-19 vaccine for children at the highest risk of severe illness.
Medical Disagreement Over Vaccine Recommendations
The AAP’s updated schedule includes the COVID-19 vaccine alongside routine immunizations for flu and RSV, targeting children at the highest risk of severe disease. The AAP states that infants and children aged 6 through 23 months are at the greatest risk of experiencing severe complications from COVID-19. This has led to the AAP’s decision to recommend COVID-19 vaccination for all children in this age range to protect them against serious illness.
Additional Recommendations and Risk-Based Approach
The AAP’s recommendations extend to older children and teenagers who may benefit from the vaccine, particularly those at higher risk of severe illness, those who have never been vaccinated, or who live with individuals at higher risk. Additionally, the AAP acknowledges that COVID-19 vaccination may also be appropriate for some children aged 2 to 18 who do not fall into these high-risk categories, provided the vaccine is desired by their parents or guardians.
Hospitalization Rates and AAP’s Rationale
The AAP’s decision to move toward a risk-based approach for older children reflects the ongoing concerns over high hospitalization rates among young children and those with underlying medical conditions, which are said to remain consistent with the rates for other vaccine-preventable diseases. The AAP highlighted that this shift is supported by the need to continue protecting children from severe illness.
Divergence From CDC Recommendations
The AAP’s recommendations differ from CDC guidance, which currently advises a more personalized, shared decision-making approach for parents and healthcare providers. CDC guidance no longer recommends routine vaccination for healthy children and pregnant women, unless there is a specific individualized need. While the AAP’s recommendations aim to prioritize the health and safety of children, the divergence in approaches highlights the growing debates and varying stances on the issue of pediatric COVID-19 vaccination.
Additional Updates to Vaccine Schedule
The AAP’s updated schedule includes immunizations against 18 diseases, recommended for all children from birth to age 18. The AAP noted that its vaccine schedule