Regulatory NewsBREAK: ACIP Issues Updated Recommendations

• On Sept 18 and Sept 19, 2025, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met to review data and vote on vaccine recommendations.
• ACIP voted to update the pediatric vaccine schedule to recommend that the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella combined vaccine (MMRV) not be given to children before the age of 4 years.  
  • Children under the age of 4 should receive separate measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine and varicella vaccine (MMR+V).
  • ACIP voted to align the Vaccines for Children (VFC) with the updated MMRV recommendation.
• ACIP voted to recommend that all pregnant women should be tested for hepatitis B infection but tabled a vote on updating the pediatric vaccine schedule regarding a birth dose vaccination.
• ACIP also had several votes about COVID-19 vaccines:
  • ACIP voted to update the pediatric and adult immunization schedules for FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines.
    • Adults 65 and older: vaccination based on individual-based decision-making, also known as shared clinical decision making.
    • Individuals 6 months to 64 years: vaccination based on individual-based decision-making—with an emphasis that the risk benefit of vaccination is most favorable for individuals who are at an increased risk for severe COVID-19 disease and lowest for individuals who are not at an increased risk.
  • ACIP voted to recommend that the CDC engage in an effort to promote more consistent and comprehensive informed consent processes, including adding language accessible to patients and providers about specific risks and uncertainties. ACIP also voted to recommend that health care providers discuss the risks and benefits of vaccination for the individual patient.
  • The committee voted against recommending a required prescription for the administration of a COVID-19 vaccination.
• ACIP’s next meeting is scheduled for Oct 22 – 23, 2025.

More on This Topic:

• ACIP Meeting Information
• AMCP Statement on Changes to the Childhood Vaccine Schedule

For questions, please reach out to Vicky Jucelin.