Delays in Covid shots for kids is latest bid by Trump officials to restrict vaccines
Summary
The Trump administration has delayed providing Covid vaccines for children through a federal program in at least 11 states and one U.S. territory. This decision affects many children who rely on the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, limiting their access to updated Covid shots amid ongoing Covid cases.Key Facts
- The Trump administration is holding back Covid vaccines for children in 11 states and American Samoa.
- The vaccines are not available through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, which serves over half of U.S. children.
- VFC helps children who are uninsured, underinsured, eligible for Medicaid, or Native American by providing free or low-cost vaccines.
- States with "universal" vaccine purchase programs that buy vaccines for all children are affected by this delay.
- Federal health officials have not given a timeline for when Covid vaccines will be available again through VFC.
- Experts say delaying vaccines could increase risks for children, especially infants who are more vulnerable to severe Covid.
- The Health and Human Services Department said a September date should not limit Covid vaccine availability since the virus circulates year-round.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr., HHS secretary, stated that vaccine access remains preserved despite the delays, though public trust in vaccines has fallen.
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