CDC Panel Recommends Against Combined MMRV vaccine,Sparking Debate
Recent recommendations from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisory committee are shifting guidance on the measles,mumps,rubella,and varicella (MMRV) vaccine,and prompting concerns from medical experts.The committee discussed the issue at their September meeting, ultimately recommending against the use of the combined MMRV shot for children under four years old.
The decision stems from a slightly elevated risk of fevers, perhaps leading to seizures, associated with the MMRV vaccine in this age group. While the CDC has preferred separate management of the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) and varicella vaccines for over 15 years due to this risk, some parents opted for the combination shot for convenience or availability, recognizing the side effects as generally mild and temporary.
This new proposal will result in the MMRV vaccine no longer being covered by federal programs providing subsidized vaccines. Dr. Katrina Kretsinger,a former CDC medical epidemiologist,argues this effectively limits parental choice. She also expressed concern that revisiting previously examined safety data could erode public trust in vaccines, creating confusion and potentially hindering vaccination rates. A potential initial shortage of the separate MMR and varicella vaccines is also anticipated as manufacturers adjust to increased demand.
Call for Separating the MMR Vaccine
Shortly after the MMRV guidance was issued, the Acting CDC Director also echoed a call – originally made by former President Trump – to separate the MMR vaccine into three individual shots for measles, mumps, and rubella.
This suggestion has drawn strong criticism from infectious disease experts. Dr. Sean O’Brien,president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America,called the idea “absolutely completely ridiculous” and a step backwards,noting the MMR vaccine has been safely and effectively administered as a combination shot since its licensing in 1971.The combination was designed to ensure children receive all necessary vaccines with a single injection, rather than three.
Both vaccine manufacturers, Merck and GSK, released statements opposing the separation of the MMR vaccine. Merck emphasized there is no scientific evidence supporting any benefit to administering the vaccines separately, and that doing so could lead to delayed or missed immunizations. GSK highlighted the role of combination vaccines in improving vaccination coverage rates, citing decades of research demonstrating their safety and efficacy. they also noted that single-shot vaccines for measles, mumps, or rubella are not currently approved for use in the U.S.
