US Vaccine Panel's Narrow Vote Leaves COVID-19 Requirements in Limbo

US Vaccine Advisory Panel's Decision Leaves Questions Unanswered A US vaccine advisory panel met on Friday to discuss COVID-19 vaccination requirements, but the meeting ended with more questions than answers. The US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) narrowly voted against requiring a prescription for the vaccines. The decision was made by the 12 ACIP members appointed by US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been a long-time anti-vaccine activist. Many of the appointees have made statements against COVID-19 vaccination or vaccine mandates, sparking concerns about their impartiality. "This is a concerning development for public health," said Dr. Peter Hotez, a prominent vaccine expert and professor at Baylor College of Medicine. "The ACIP's role is to provide evidence-based recommendations, not to politicize vaccination policy." According to the ACIP's findings, COVID-19 vaccinations will no longer be required by prescription, but rather individuals can make their own decisions in consultation with a healthcare provider. "This decision preserves access to vaccines and ensures that health insurance programs continue to cover the shots," said Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician and vaccine expert at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "It's a pragmatic approach that balances individual freedom with public health needs." The ACIP's recommendations have significant implications for government programs and private health insurance companies, which fund healthcare for millions of US residents. Background on the panel's composition is also noteworthy. Kennedy fired the 17 previous members of the ACIP just days before announcing his new appointees, sparking controversy over the selection process. Critics argue that the appointment of anti-vaccine activists undermines the integrity of the advisory committee and threatens public health efforts. "This is a clear example of how politics can interfere with science," said Dr. Hotez. "We need to ensure that our public health policies are based on evidence, not ideology." The decision has left many in the medical community concerned about the potential consequences for public health. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen what impact this decision will have on vaccination rates and public health policy. In a statement, Kennedy's office said that the new appointees bring "diverse perspectives" to the ACIP and are committed to making evidence-based recommendations. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has yet to comment on the decision. *Reporting by Nature.*