The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) plays a crucial role in protecting childhood and adult health by developing vaccination recommendations based on scientific evidence. SHEA encourages timely rescheduling of the ACIP’s meeting that was scheduled for February 2025 to ensure patients and healthcare providers are getting the most up to date recommendations based on the latest scientific evidence review regarding vaccination.
The ACIP’s recommendations are foundational to public health, guiding pediatric and adult vaccine schedules that have significantly reduced the prevalence of highly communicable infectious diseases such a measles, mumps, rubella and pertussis. This is especially crucial for older adults, pregnant women, those with chronic conditions, and those that work in healthcare settings treating patients and interacting with caregivers. ACIP recommendations acknowledge and accept religious exemptions and recognized medical contraindications as reasons for not receiving recommended immunizations. The ACIP recommended updates to the vaccination schedule are important for medical insurance coverage of vaccines which is often contingent upon these recommendations. Any perceived mistrust in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines leads to significantly lower immunization coverage and increases the chances of more outbreaks, hospitalizations, and deaths from serious, preventable diseases such as measles. Vaccines save lives and are an important tool in protecting the public, patients, and healthcare personnel.
About SHEA
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) works to advance the science and practice of healthcare epidemiology and infection prevention. Founded in 1980, SHEA promotes education, research, and advocacy to improve patient care and safety. For more information, visit www.shea-online.org.
Contact: Lindsay MacMurray, lmacmurray@shea-online.org