The U.S. government’s stance on Covid-19 vaccines has sparked heated debate, with recent moves by the Trump administration and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raising questions about science, safety, and the decision-making process. In a recent interview on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary struggled to provide clear answers, instead urging Americans to “consult their doctors” about Covid shots. This comes amid a series of controversial policy changes that have left public health experts, parents, and pregnant individuals searching for clarity.
Mixed Messages on Vaccines
During the interview, Makary admitted that data on Covid vaccines for healthy children and pregnant people are “mixed.” He avoided making firm recommendations, saying decisions should be left to patients and their doctors. This hands-off approach has frustrated many, especially as the administration has moved to restrict vaccine access. The FDA is planning to limit Covid shots to people 65 and older or those with specific risk factors, a shift from previous guidance. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. took the bold step of pulling the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendation that healthy children and pregnant people get vaccinated.
These decisions have bypassed the usual regulatory process, which typically involves input from the public and independent experts. While the shots remain available, the changes could mean insurers stop covering the cost, making access harder for many families.
A Blow to Pregnant People and Children
Public health experts are particularly alarmed by the withdrawal of the vaccine recommendation for pregnant people. CDC data show that most babies hospitalized with Covid-19 were born to unvaccinated mothers. Covid infection during pregnancy can also lead to severe illness for the mother, posing