ACIP Updates RSV Prevention for Infants, Flu Vaccine Guidelines
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Atlanta, GA – June 27, 2025 – The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has issued new recommendations regarding respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) prevention in infants and updated guidelines for seasonal influenza vaccines, emphasizing formulations free of thimerosal. the ACIP, a panel of leading medical and public health experts advising the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), convened on June 25-26, 2025, at the CDC headquarters in Atlanta to discuss and vote on these critical public health measures.
Key ACIP Recommendations
During the meeting, the ACIP made several key decisions regarding vaccine and antibody recommendations:
- Approved, by a vote of five to two, a single dose of clesrovimab, a monoclonal antibody, for infants whose mothers were not vaccinated against RSV. Clesrovimab is one of two monoclonal antibody products available for RSV prevention.
- Approved, by a vote of seven to zero, the updated Vaccines for Children Program resolution for the prevention of RSV.
- Reaffirmed, by a vote of six to zero, the recommendation for routine annual influenza vaccination for all individuals aged six months and older without contraindications.
- Recommended, by a vote of five to one, that children 18 years and younger receive seasonal influenza vaccines only in single-dose formulations that are free of thimerosal as a preservative.
- Recommended, by a vote of five to one, that pregnant women receive seasonal influenza vaccines only in single-dose formulations that are free of thimerosal as a preservative.
- Recommended, by a vote of five to one, that all adults receive seasonal influenza vaccines only in single-dose formulations that are free of thimerosal as a preservative.
Next Steps and Implementation
The recommendations made by the ACIP are now under review by the CDC Director. If adopted, these guidelines will be published as official CDC/HHS recommendations in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). The CDC Director will then inform the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Assistant Secretary for Health of these immunization recommendations.
The ACIP is scheduled to hold its next meeting in the third quarter of 2025.
ACIP’s Commitment to Public Health
At the conclusion of the meeting, the ACIP members issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to honesty, openness, and compassion in safeguarding public health. They underscored their dedication to evidence-based medicine, rigorous evaluation, and expansive scientific data in supporting the use of vaccines and other countermeasures.
Did You Know? RSV typically circulates from November to April in the Northern Hemisphere [[3]].
The committee acknowledged the importance of providing understandable, digestible, and scientifically accurate information to all stakeholders, including healthcare providers, parents, schools, nursing homes, insurance providers, public health agencies, manufacturers, and individuals who may experience adverse effects from recommended interventions. They emphasized the need for extensive data collection to assess both short- and long-term side effects and to evaluate their magnitude.
The ACIP members affirmed their commitment to unbiased scientific thinking and pledged to make judgments as if they were treating their own families. They recognized the seriousness of their responsibility,understanding that their recommendations may be perceived as mandates,and vowed not to hold a vote without sufficient information to evaluate the risks and benefits.
Pro Tip: Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for RSV prevention and influenza vaccination for you and your family.
Summary of ACIP Recommendations
| Recommendation | Vote Outcome | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Clesrovimab for RSV Prevention | 5-2 Approval | Single dose for infants whose mothers are not RSV vaccinated. |
| Updated Vaccines for Children Program for RSV | 7-0 Approval | Updated guidelines for RSV prevention in children. |
| Annual flu Vaccination | 6-0 Reaffirmation | Routine annual influenza vaccination for individuals over six months. |
| Thimerosal-Free Flu Vaccines | 5-1 Recommendation | Seasonal flu vaccines in single-dose, thimerosal-free formulations for children, pregnant women, and adults. |
Understanding RSV and Influenza
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.Annual vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu and its potentially serious complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to prevent RSV in infants?
- The ACIP recommends clesrovimab, a monoclonal antibody, for infants whose mothers were not vaccinated against RSV. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, can also help prevent the spread of RSV.
- Why are thimerosal-free flu vaccines recommended?
- While thimerosal has been deemed safe in vaccines at the levels used, the ACIP recommended thimerosal-free formulations to address public concerns and promote vaccine confidence.
- How effective is the annual flu vaccine?
- The effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary each year depending on the match between the vaccine strains and the circulating flu viruses. However, vaccination is still the best way to protect against the flu and its complications.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
What are your thoughts on the updated RSV prevention and flu vaccine guidelines? How do you plan to protect yourself and your family this season?
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