Shapiro Admin Releases Clear, Evidence-Based Guidance to Protect Vaccine Access | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA - Following last week's confusing and chaotic meeting of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the Shapiro Administration released new recommendations to provide clear, evidence-based guidance to ensure vaccines remain accessible for Pennsylvanians who want them.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH)issued new guidance expanding the list of organizations Pennsylvanians and their doctors should consult for vaccine recommendations to include the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

"Vaccines save lives, protect families, and prevent dangerous diseases from spreading throughout our communities," said Governor Josh Shapiro. "While the federal government sows confusion, here in Pennsylvania, we are providing clear, evidence-based guidance to ensure Pennsylvanians and their doctors have trusted sources of information. Health care decisions should be up to you and your doctor - and my Administration will continue to protect Pennsylvanians' personal freedoms and parental rights."

At the September meeting, ACIP members frequently voiced confusion among themselves with the panel's own proposed recommendations and votes. ACIP tabled a vote on the Hepatitis B vaccine, but it recommended against using the combined Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (MMRV) Vaccine for children under age 4. Under ACIP's recommendation, children under 4 should receive separate MMR and varicella vaccines, without the option of taking the combined MMRV vaccine. Additionally, ACIP voted to back away from its previous recommendation that Americans 6 months and older receive an annual COVID vaccine.

These changes may make it more difficult for some Pennsylvanians to access needed vaccines - and the confusing proceedings threaten to create more misinformation around vaccines. That's why the Shapiro Administration is taking new action to provide clear, evidence-based vaccine guidance.

Ahead of the ACIP meeting, the Shapiro Administration urged ACIP members to take decisive, science-driven action to protect vaccine access in Pennsylvania and ensure parents and individuals maintain the freedom to make health care decisions for themselves and their children. This followed earlier action taken by Governor Shapiro to safeguard Pennsylvanians' ability to make their own health care choices, when he called earlier this month for the State Board of Pharmacy to protect COVID vaccine access for those most in need.

At a time when the federal government is sowing distrust of science-backed health care guidance, Governor Shapiro is cutting through the noise to make sure families have the information they need to make informed choices.

Consistent vaccine guidance ensures providers, insurers, and public health systems work together, giving Pennsylvanians reliable access to critical immunizations and safeguarding community health. By providing clear, evidence-based recommendations, the Shapiro Administration is helping to keep vaccines accessible and aligned across health care systems to protect the health of all Pennsylvanians.

Pennsylvania Department of Health: Guidance on Immunizations

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) is committed to providing clear, trusted guidance on immunizations to protect individuals, families, and communities. DOH recommends that residents follow guidance from leading medical authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), to ensure timely and equitable access to vaccines across the Commonwealth. Residents should consult their health care providers regarding the best timing and personal considerations for vaccinations.

Insurance Coverage for Vaccines in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) is actively working with health insurers across the Commonwealth to ensure that all previously recommended vaccines continue to be covered, ensuring ACIP's latest meeting does not result in any additional financial barriers for individuals and families seeking immunizations to protect themselves.

By following these evidence-based recommendations, Pennsylvanians can protect themselves and their communities from serious vaccine-preventable diseases while maintaining the freedom to make informed health care decisions.