The nation’s largest organization of pediatricians is breaking with the Trump administration and recommending that infants get vaccinated for COVID-19 ahead of an expected surge in respiratory illness this winter.
The American Academy of Pediatrics announced the new policy on Tuesday, urging that infants between six months and two years get the vaccine because they’re considered high-risk for the worst effects of the virus at that age. The Academy also recommended that children between two and 18 years get the COVID-19 vaccine if they haven’t already, or if they’re considered high risk due to other conditions or live with anyone considered high risk.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has publicly shared his skepticism of vaccines and drastically changed the federal vaccine approval and regulation processes since being appointed by President Trump. Earlier this year, Kennedy said children should not get the COVID-19 shot.
A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study found that half of infants hospitalized for COVID-19 between 2022 and 2024 had no underlying conditions. The Academy said it hopes the new recommendations will boost vaccination rates among the youngest children.
