HHS Vaccine Advisory Committee to Review Recommendations on COVID-19, Hepatitis B, and Chickenpox Vaccines

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' vaccine advisory committee is scheduled to convene this week in Atlanta to evaluate and potentially revise recommendations for COVID-19, hepatitis B, and chickenpox vaccinations. The specific agenda items for the Thursday and Friday sessions have not been disclosed, and HHS officials have yet to provide further details.

Public health experts have expressed concern that the forthcoming votes may introduce unnecessary doubts about vaccine efficacy among parents. Dr. William Schaffner, a vaccine specialist at Vanderbilt University, remarked, "I'm tightening my seat belt," indicating apprehension about the potential outcomes of the meeting.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on vaccine usage. Historically, the CDC has adopted ACIP's recommendations, which significantly influence medical practices and vaccination initiatives nationwide.

Earlier this year, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his critical stance on vaccines, dismissed the existing 17-member ACIP panel and appointed a new group, including individuals with anti-vaccine perspectives.

COVID-19 Vaccines

Traditionally, ACIP reaffirms recommendations for vaccines against respiratory viruses each June. However, in June 2025, the committee endorsed influenza vaccinations but did not address COVID-19 vaccines. Prior to that meeting, Secretary Kennedy removed COVID-19 vaccines from the CDC's recommendations for healthy children and pregnant women, a decision that faced criticism from medical organizations and led to legal action by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Subsequently, the CDC clarified that families could still access the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines for their children in consultation with healthcare providers, ensuring coverage under the Vaccines For Children (VFC) program, which supports vaccinations for underprivileged families. The committee has yet to decide on recommendations for the upcoming season's COVID-19 vaccines or their inclusion in the VFC program.

Complicating matters, the FDA recently approved new COVID-19 vaccines but limited their use for healthy younger adults and children. Dr. Sean O'Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics warned that without further guidance, this could restrict vaccine access for approximately half of American children.

Hepatitis B Vaccines

Hepatitis B, a serious liver infection, can be transmitted from infected mothers to newborns, with a high risk of chronic infection in infants. The hepatitis B vaccine, first licensed in 1981, has been recommended for newborns since 1991. These vaccinations have been effective, with no recent studies indicating safety concerns. Despite this, the current ACIP has indicated a desire to revisit these guidelines.

MMRV (Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella) Vaccines

Chickenpox, caused by the varicella virus, can lead to severe complications. The chickenpox vaccine, recommended since 1995, has significantly reduced cases and fatalities. In 2006, the MMRV combination vaccine was introduced, initially preferred over separate MMR and varicella shots. However, studies revealed higher incidences of rash, fever, and rare seizures with the combination vaccine, leading to revised recommendations in 2009. Currently, separate doses are suggested for the first shot, with the combination used for the second. No new evidence has emerged regarding MMRV vaccine harms, yet the committee plans to reassess these recommendations.

Dr. O'Leary commented, "This version of the ACIP is an orchestrated effort to sow distrust in vaccines," reflecting concerns about the committee's direction.

New Committee Appointments

On Monday, HHS announced five new ACIP members, bringing the total to 12. The appointees include Hilary Blackburn, a pharmacist and podcaster; Dr. Evelyn Griffin, an obstetrician-gynecologist; Dr. Kirk Milhoan, a pediatric cardiologist; Dr. Raymond Pollak, a transplant specialist; and Catherine Stein, a disease researcher. Some of these individuals have previously expressed skepticism about vaccines, raising further concerns among public health professionals.