CDC Reverses Course on COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance for Children, Pregnant Women

CDC Updates COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance, Walking Back Some Changes: A Report from ABC7 Chicago Chicago, IL – May 31, 2025 – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released updated guidance on COVID-19 vaccinations, seemingly reversing some of the changes announced earlier this week by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The new guidelines emphasize a shared decision-making approach, urging parents to consult with their pediatricians before vaccinating their children. Despite the shift, the report confirms that insurance coverage for eligible children aged 6 months to 17 years will remain in place. The situation is less clear for pregnant women. While the CDC offers no specific guidance, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly recommends vaccination for pregnant individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Dr. Susan Kressly, President of the American Academy of Pediatrics, commented on the situation, stating, "Important decisions about vaccine recommendations should be made in a transparent, evidence-based process that includes input from public health experts, medical professionals, and experts in immunology and infectious diseases. That is not what happened in this case." This lack of clear guidance, according to experts, creates uncertainty regarding insurance coverage for pregnant women. A CDC advisory panel is set to meet in June to finalize recommendations for fall vaccinations. The report highlights the increased risk of hospitalization for pregnant women who contract COVID-19, particularly those with underlying conditions like heart disease, obesity, or diabetes. The updated guidance is intended to promote informed decision-making and ensure access to necessary healthcare.