Mass. releases COVID-19 vaccine guidance day before CDC vaccine meeting

Massachusetts has issued updated COVID-19 vaccination guidance, recommending vaccinations for children aged six to 23 months and all adults ahead of the CDC advisory committee meeting. Governor Maura Healey asserted that the state will uphold residents' health care choices regardless of federal discussions. The Department of Public Health (DPH) recommends vaccinations for adults over 65 and individuals with medical conditions that increase their COVID risk. Healthy children aged two and older may receive one dose, while unvaccinated children should get vaccinated this year. The recommendations stem from the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, which is backed by organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Healey urged the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to adopt similar evidence-based recommendations. DPH supports vaccinations for healthcare workers and those in long-term care facilities. "Vaccines remain the most effective public health intervention of the past century," stated Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, emphasizing the importance of the new guidelines.