The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued updated vaccine guidelines recommending Covid-19 shots for infants and young children, directly diverging from current CDC policy.
The AAP advised that children aged 6 to 23 months receive the vaccine unless medically exempt, and recommended a single dose for children up to 18 years in high-risk categories.
The move breaks with the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which was restructured this year by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and has since drawn criticism for promoting vaccine skepticism.
Defying RFK Jr., the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends #COVID19 shots for young kids.
— The Nation's Health (@nationshealth) August 19, 2025
“We make our recommendations based on what’s in the best interest of the health of children.” From @washingtonpost: https://t.co/lg0PYXRp9H
The AAP, sidelined from the committee in August, rejected the panel as “illegitimate” and vowed to publish its own schedule.
Federal health officials condemned the move. HHS accused the AAP of undermining national vaccine policy with political attacks, while the FDA signaled it may restrict authorization of Covid-19 shots for younger children later this year
