Bucking RFK Jr., OB-GYNs release vaccine guidance that conflicts with CDC

In a notable shift, the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) has unveiled its own set of guidelines regarding maternal vaccinations, marking a departure from the recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This announcement comes in the wake of significant policy changes and interference attributed to anti-vaccine advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who currently serves as the Health Secretary. ACOG President Camille Clare emphasized the necessity for accurate, evidence-based information on maternal immunizations, particularly as confusion has spread among patients and healthcare professionals due to conflicting national recommendations and pervasive vaccine misinformation. "It is incredibly important for the public to have access to reliable, evidence-based information from a trusted source. ACOG is proud to be that source," Clare remarked in a statement. The new ACOG Maternal Immunization Schedule for 2026 notably diverges from the CDC's current guidelines, particularly by recommending COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccinations. Under Kennedy's direction, these vaccines have been excluded from the CDC's recommendations, despite substantial backing from scientific communities and medical organizations. Currently, the CDC advises only two vaccinations during pregnancy: Tdap (for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) and RSV (for respiratory syncytial virus). In contrast, ACOG's updated guidance advocates for the inclusion of influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and Tdap vaccines. Furthermore, it outlines specific recommendations for additional vaccines tailored to certain populations, as well as those advised during the postpartum period and while breastfeeding. ACOG Chief of Clinical Practice Christopher Zahn remarked, "Immunizations are an essential part of prepregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum care. As OB-GYNs, we have the power to combat vaccine misinformation on our own platforms, help our patients make educated decisions, and increase confidence in vaccination overall."