UK advisory body recommends ending free COVID vaccines for pregnant women in spring 2025, raising concerns.

The UK's vaccine advisory body, JCVI, has recommended ending free COVID vaccines for pregnant women starting spring 2025, sparking concerns. Vaccines reduce severe COVID risks for pregnant women and can pass protective antibodies to newborns, lowering their risk of hospitalization. Critics argue the decision overlooks these benefits, especially as infants under six months have the highest risk of COVID hospitalization. The JCVI's cost-effectiveness assessment method remains unclear, as it focuses on preventing deaths in those 15 and older, not accounting for infant vulnerabilities.

November 20, 2024
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