ACIP Targets Covid Shots and Pregnancy Vaccines Under Safety Debate
Federal vaccine advisers on the ACIP are turning their attention to the next targets—mRNA Covid vaccines and vaccines given during pregnancy—amid warnings from some panelists that Covid shots may be unsafe and calls to pull them from the market; the FDA has rejected DNA-contamination fears, and can only influence use through recommendations, not withdraw vaccines. A new work group will review vaccines for pregnant women, and two Kennedy-appointed members with anti-vaccine views have joined, fueling controversy ahead of the Feb. 25–27 meeting. Despite the dispute, extensive studies have found no safety concerns with vaccines in pregnancy, and the panel’s decisions can still affect coverage and clinical use.
