A US federal panel of medical experts has recommended expanding RSV vaccinations for adults and introducing a new meningitis combination shot as an alternative protection option for teens. However, due to the absence of a permanent CDC director, the decision will be made by Matthew Buzzelli, an ex-prosecutor without medical background.
The scientific panel suggested:
– Vaccination against respiratory syncytial virus is recommended for adults aged 50-59 with increased risks.
– A new meningitis combination shot offers protection against five strains of bacteria, including a strain responsible for college campus outbreaks.
– Travelers aged 12 and older should receive an additional chikungunya vaccine option in countries where the mosquito-borne illness occurs, with around 100-200 reported cases annually.
A precautionary note has been added to the older chikungunya vaccine: people aged 65 and above should weigh the benefits against risks due to six recent reports of adverse reactions. The investigation into these incidents is ongoing.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/cdc-vaccine-recommendations-acip-kennedy-c10ecfcabc72fe31015b1ca2632e30c5