The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) weakened Covid vaccine recommendations in the U.S., advising consultation with a healthcare provider before getting the shot. The group emphasized that the vaccine benefits those at high risk under 65. The CDC must adopt these recommendations, which may cause confusion and access issues for Americans.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appointed ACIP members who raised doubts about the safety and efficacy of Covid shots and mRNA technology. This decision follows Kennedy’s other moves to change U.S. Covid vaccine policy, potentially affecting access to vaccines and impacting vaccination rates against the virus in the country.

Studies have shown that mRNA Covid vaccines are safe and effective, with rare side effects. One study estimates that Covid vaccines saved over 2 million lives globally. Despite changes in vaccine recommendations, major health insurance groups will continue to cover all vaccines recommended by ACIP, including Covid and flu shots.

ACIP member Retsef Levi from MIT questioned the safety and efficacy of Covid shots, suggesting that mRNA platforms are not as intended. He emphasized the need for prescriptions for the vaccine, while another member, Dr. Henry Bernstein, highlighted the importance of Covid vaccination for various groups, including pregnant women, pediatric patients, and those with weakened immune systems.

Read more at CNBC: RFK Jr. vaccine panel Covid shot recommendations