Overview

• The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted to advise against giving the combined MMRV shot to children under four, recommending separate MMR and varicella doses instead.
• Members cited the combined shot’s small, temporary risk of febrile seizures, a concern pediatric leaders note has long been known and already accommodated by offering separate shots.
• American Academy of Pediatrics infectious-diseases chair Sean O’Leary said the issue had been settled years ago and suggested the change may needlessly worry parents.
• Epidemiologist Syra Madad cautioned that reopening settled guidance risks eroding protections that have effectively prevented outbreaks.
• The committee postponed a vote on the timing of newborn hepatitis B vaccination and plans further action on this season’s COVID-19 recommendations, including eligibility and coverage.