Why is there a difference in the recommendations of AAP and CDC?

COVID-19 Vaccine Guidelines for Kids: The COVID-19 vaccine guidelines for children are different from those of AAP and CDC. However, also know who your parents should trust and what is the right advice.

 

COVID-19 Vaccine Guidelines for Kids: The coronavirus pandemic has affected the health of both children and adults. Meanwhile, a new debate has started. The American Academy of Pediatrics ( AAP) has issued a new guideline regarding the COVID-19 vaccine for children, which, for the first time, is different from the advice of the US government i.e. CDC ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ) . Now the question arises, which of these two should the parents listen to and understand.

AAP 's new recommendations

• Children between 6 months and 2 years of age must get the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Vaccines are also recommended for older children , but whether or not to get them vaccinated is left to the parents' discretion
• AAP President Dr. Susan J. Kressley says her organization's recommendations will always be based on science and the best interests of children

CDC has a different opinion

On the other hand, the CDC , led by US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., says that the COVID-19 vaccine is not recommended for healthy children at any age. They believe that parents can get the vaccine for their children if they wish after consulting a doctor .

Reactions from the government and doctors

• The US Department of Health ( HHS) issued a statement saying that the American public should trust that medical advice is based only on science and public health
• The department has appealed to AAP to keep its publications away from any economic impact
• Meanwhile, CBS expert Dr. Celine Gounder said that there is a lot of noise about the vaccine , but parents should maintain faith in regular vaccination.

Young children are at greater risk

According to experts, the risk of Covid-19 is more serious especially in children between 6 months and 2 years. Children at this age are at a higher risk of hospitalisation and serious complications.

Guidelines on other vaccines as well

• RSV ( respiratory syncytial virus ): Infants younger than 8 months should be vaccinated, especially if the mother did not receive the vaccine during pregnancy.
• Flu vaccine : All children over 6 months of age should get a flu vaccine every year, unless there is a medical reason that prevents this.

AAP and CDC may have different opinions regarding vaccination of children , but it is most important for parents to consult a trusted doctor. AAP believes that there is still a risk of Covid in young children, while CDC leaves it to the parents' wish. In such a situation, only correct information and balanced decision can ensure the safety of children.