US: Government decides children will receive separate vaccines for these four diseases, not a combined vaccine

MMRV Combined Vaccine: US vaccine advisors on September 18 recommended against giving the combined measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine to children under the age of 4, opting instead for separate MMR and varicella vaccines. 

The decision, made by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy's 12-member Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, is one of the first major steps in his efforts to overhaul US vaccination policy.

Why was the combined vaccine rejected?

The panel cited studies that link combined vaccines to a higher risk of febrile seizures in young children. However, critics, including vaccine maker Merck, said the vote lacked new scientific evidence and contradicted years of safety data supporting the current schedule. Until now, the CDC recommended separate vaccines unless parents specifically preferred a combination.

meeting exposed confusion among the newly appointed panel, many of whom have long opposed the vaccine. Members repeatedly clashed over the impact of their decisions on insurance coverage and the federal vaccine program. 

The split vote left it unclear whether the MMRV vaccine would be available free of charge under the vaccination program for children, although widespread access may be limited.

Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic

, has moved swiftly to implement sweeping changes, including limiting access to the COVID-19 vaccine, supporting state-level waivers, and removing senior public health officials. 

He argues such measures will restore public confidence, though experts warn they could undermine the immunization system.

What impact will this have on other vaccines?

The panel also postponed a vote on delaying hepatitis B vaccination until one month of age, except for children born to infected mothers. On September 19, it is expected to consider recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination.

Will vaccine options be reduced?

Public health experts have expressed concern that the removal of physician representatives and normal evidence review procedures undermines credibility. 

Critics fear these changes could reduce vaccine access and reduce parental choice, raising questions about the long-term impact on US vaccination policy.