St. Louis County Defies Federal Vaccine Guidelines During Severe Flu Season
The ongoing flu season has prompted St. Louis County officials to take a stand against updated federal vaccine guidelines for children. This decision underscores a trend where local jurisdictions diverge from federal immunization recommendations.
St. Louis County’s Vaccine Recommendations
The St. Louis County Department of Public Health recommends flu vaccinations for everyone aged six months and older. This guidance, however, excludes individuals who are at heightened risk of adverse medical reactions.
Changes in Federal Guidelines
Earlier this month, federal health officials revised the childhood vaccination schedule. The new federal recommendations suggest that flu vaccines be administered only to specific high-risk children after a consultation with a physician. This approach is referred to as “shared clinical decision-making.”
Health Officials Respond
Kanika Cunningham, the Health Director for St. Louis County, affirmed the safety of vaccines, stating that they have been rigorously tested. “The science supporting vaccine safety has not changed,” she emphasized. County Executive Sam Page, a medical doctor, criticized the rapid revision of guidelines, noting the absence of a public comment period that traditionally allows for expert input.
Impact of Flu Season
The revised guidelines come amid a severe flu season in Missouri, where respiratory illness activity is classified as “very high.” St. Louis County has reported eight flu-related deaths this season, primarily among older individuals and those with existing health conditions. Most of the deceased had not received this year’s flu vaccine.
At-Risk Populations
- Older adults
- Young children
- Pregnant individuals
- People with chronic health conditions
Health officials continue to stress that influenza can be deadly, particularly for those in high-risk categories. There have also been two flu outbreaks reported in county schools.
Alternatives to Federal Guidance
Some state leaders are taking measures against the federal recommendations. In Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill that allows state health officials to craft specific vaccine guidelines based on local needs.
Advice for Parents
A spokesperson for the St. Louis Department of Health reiterated the importance of vaccination for illness prevention. Parents are strongly encouraged to consult with their pediatricians regarding the best vaccination strategies for their children.
Continued CDC Recommendations
Despite the recent changes, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains its recommendations for other vaccinations, including those for measles, polio, and varicella. The intent behind the federal revisions is to align the U.S. vaccine schedule with those of other countries, like Denmark.
