by Fauzia J. Choudhury
New York, August 19, 2025: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a strong recommendation that infants and toddlers aged 6 to 23 months receive COVID-19 vaccines, directly conflicting with the recent position of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.).
Key Points
• AAP Recommendation
In its latest immunization schedule, the AAP advises that all children in this age group should be vaccinated, particularly those with underlying health conditions or higher vulnerability.
• AAP President’s Statement
AAP President Susan J. Kressly emphasized, “In this era of misinformation, providing clear and confident guidance is critical. Protecting vulnerable children remains our top priority.”
• CDC’s Softer Approach
Under RFK Jr.’s leadership, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shifted from a universal recommendation to a “shared clinical decision-making” model, leaving vaccination decisions to parents in consultation with their healthcare providers.
• First Major Split in Decades
This marks the first significant divergence between the AAP and CDC in over 30 years; previously, both organizations largely agreed on pediatric vaccination guidance.
Background
Experts highlight that infants and toddlers are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness and hospitalization. Currently, only about 4.5% of children under two are fully vaccinated.
Earlier this year, RFK Jr. dissolved the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), replacing vaccine experts with members skeptical of vaccines, significantly changing the federal guidance framework.
Implications
• Conflicting guidance may create confusion among parents and healthcare providers.
• Public health experts warn that such a split could negatively impact child protection efforts and vaccine coverage.
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