Overview

• The CDC finalized ACIP’s shift to individual-based COVID-19 vaccination decisions for people under 65, keeping routine recommendations for adults 65 and older and those at high risk.
• The agency no longer endorses the combined MMRV shot for very young children and now advises separate MMR and varicella doses after data showed a small, short-term increase in febrile seizures 7–10 days post-vaccination in 12–23 month toddlers.
• CDC officials say vaccine costs will remain covered through Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, the Vaccines for Children program, and Affordable Care Act–regulated plans.
• California enacted a law requiring insurers to cover vaccines recommended by its health department and, with Oregon and Washington, formed the West Coast Health Alliance to maintain broader guidance than the new federal posture.
• California’s fall recommendations include COVID-19 vaccination for infants 6–23 months and selected children and adolescents based on risk or household exposure, with shots available through clinics, school health centers, and pharmacies.