APhA's Decision to Withhold Endorsement of Updated ACIP Immunization Schedule Sparks Debate

APhA's Stance on ACIP Adult Immunization Schedule

In recent news, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) made a pivotal decision not to endorse the latest Adult Immunization Schedule provided by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). This decision comes in the wake of significant updates regarding COVID-19 vaccine recommendations that have raised eyebrows in the healthcare community.

As the only pharmacy representative among numerous professional organizations that scrutinize the ACIP schedules, APhA holds a unique position. This year, the organization evaluated the new guidelines proposed on May 28, 2025, which include notable changes—most controversially, the removal of the recommendation for pregnant individuals to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This alteration is alarming given the current scientific understanding of COVID-19’s impact on pregnant individuals.

Research has substantiated the increased risks faced by pregnant individuals regarding COVID-19. Studies indicate that those who are pregnant or recently postpartum are more likely to experience severe illness from the virus. They may require hospitalization, intensive care, or respiratory support if infected. Furthermore, complications can arise, affecting both the pregnancy and fetal health, potentially leading to outcomes like preterm birth or stillbirth.

Despite the risks, the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy have been well-documented, dispelling previous concerns surrounding fertility for both women and men. APhA firmly believes that given pregnancy is categorized as a high-risk condition, it should be strongly recommended for this demographic to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The recent updates by HHS and CDC appear not to align with the mounting scientific evidence supporting vaccination during pregnancy. As a result of these discrepancies, APhA’s immunization specialists convened and brought forward a proposal to the Board of Trustees to withhold their endorsement of the current ACIP Adult Immunization Schedule. This contentious decision emphasizes the necessity of basing public health guidelines on solid scientific evidence.

APhA’s firm stance serves as a call to action for future updates to the Adult Immunization Schedule. The organization is hopeful that ACIP will prioritize scientific data in their recommendations moving forward. APhA has expressed a willingness to reconsider its position should subsequent discussions and modifications reflect a sounder scientific basis.

This development highlights broader issues regarding vaccine recommendations and emphasizes the critical importance of pharmaceutical organizations in safeguarding public health. It serves as a reminder that decisions about immunization policies have profound implications, not only for individuals but also for societal health trends.

In conclusion, the APhA’s choice to withhold endorsement sends a powerful message about the organization's commitment to science-driven healthcare. The public and healthcare professionals alike await further updates on this matter, hoping that the concerns raised will resonate throughout the decision-making process at ACIP, ensuring that the health of the most vulnerable populations is effectively protected.