The American Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met recently, voting to change MMRV and COVID-19 vaccine guidelines and recommendations, and postponing a vote on proposed changes to hepatitis B vaccination.
The combination measles, mumps, rubella and varicella vaccine (MMRV) is no longer recommended in the US for children under 4 years of age. The COVID-19 vaccine is no longer recommended for all adults in the US; recommendations are now subject to a ‘shared decision-making’ process whereby individuals are advised to weigh up risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
Via our social media platforms, MVEC has published a shortform explainer (@mvecau on Instagram) on ACIP’s MMRV change and why it shouldn’t impact confidence in Australia’s immunisation program.
Materials from the 18 to 19 September meeting are not yet fully accessible for all audiences.
The following articles from US-based publications offer more context on the ACIP meeting:
NPR: CDC advisers punt on hepatitis B vaccine vote, after changing guidance on MMRV
ABC News: Why doctors say the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine is still necessary
For more information on the relevant vaccine-preventable diseases, go to:
MVEC: Sởi
MVEC: Varicella
MVEC: COVID-19
MVEC: Viêm gan B