ATLANTA – The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) delivered a series of unanimous recommendations this week, expanding access to updated influenza and pneumococcal vaccines and reaffirming the importance of RSV immunization for infants. The decisions,made during the committee’s meeting from June 26-28,2024,aim to refine and strengthen the nation’s immunization schedule.
ACIP unanimously recommended routine vaccination against influenza for all individuals 6 months and older. Additionally, the committee stated that high-dose (HD-IIV3) and adjuvanted (aIIV3) inactivated influenza vaccines are acceptable options for solid organ transplant recipients aged 18-64 taking immunosuppressive medications, offering healthcare providers adaptability in vaccine choice.
For pneumococcal disease prevention, ACIP unanimously recommended PCV21 as an option for adults 19 years and older who currently have a proposal to receive a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV). PCV21 covers 81% of the pneumococcal serotypes commonly found in adults.
Regarding Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the CDC continues to recommend immunizations to protect all babies from severe RSV.Real-world data presented at the meeting confirmed the effectiveness of nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody marketed as Beyfortus, in reducing RSV-associated emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
ACIP also announced the formation of a new work group focused on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, with its first meeting scheduled for July 2024.The group will review current dosage recommendations, vaccination age guidelines, and shared clinical decision-making guidance for individuals aged 27-45.
Discussions regarding the adolescent meningococcal vaccine schedule were initiated and will continue at the October 2024 ACIP meeting to optimize protection for higher-risk age groups.
