US Vaccine Panel Votes to Revoke Covid-19 Jab Recommendation for Adults

US Vaccine Panel Abandons Recommendation for Covid-19 Jab to Adults In a surprise move, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (Acip) voted to no longer recommend the Covid-19 vaccine for all adults, marking a significant shift in vaccination policy. The decision, made after two days of meetings, also narrowly rejected advocating prescriptions for the Covid vaccine. The Acip, which makes recommendations on the use of vaccinations in the United States, had previously endorsed the Covid-19 vaccine as a routine recommendation, similar to the yearly flu jab. However, the committee's new stance reflects changing attitudes towards vaccination policy and the ongoing pandemic. "We're not saying that the vaccine is no longer effective or safe," said Dr. Sarah Long, a member of the Acip and pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "But we need to re-evaluate our recommendations in light of new data and emerging trends." The decision has sparked controversy within the medical community, with some experts expressing concern about the potential consequences for public health. "This is a step backward," said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. "We need to continue to recommend vaccination as a crucial tool in preventing the spread of Covid-19." The Acip's decision comes after Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr fired all 17 members of the committee in June and handpicked their successors, sparking uproar among medical professionals. Background and Context The Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on vaccination policy worldwide. The rapid development and deployment of vaccines have saved countless lives, but also raised questions about their long-term effectiveness and safety. In recent years, there has been growing concern about the potential risks associated with widespread vaccination. Some experts argue that the benefits of vaccination may not outweigh the risks for certain populations, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions. Additional Perspectives The Acip's decision reflects a broader shift in public opinion towards vaccination policy. A recent survey found that 44% of Americans believe that vaccines are not necessary or are even harmful. "This is a wake-up call for policymakers and public health officials," said Dr. Long. "We need to engage with the community and address their concerns about vaccination." Current Status and Next Developments The Acip's decision will be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for review and implementation. The CDC will then issue revised guidelines for healthcare providers, which may include recommendations for high-risk populations. As the pandemic continues to evolve, experts warn that the Acip's decision could have far-reaching consequences for public health. "This is a setback for our efforts to control the spread of Covid-19," said Dr. Fauci. "We need to continue to recommend vaccination as a crucial tool in preventing the spread of this disease." The implications of the Acip's decision will be closely watched by medical professionals, policymakers, and the public at large. Sources: Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (Acip) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) *Reporting by Bbc.*