How are new vaccines added for coverage under the VICP?
On March 24, 1997, a final rule was published which, in part, provided for the “automatic” addition of future vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for routine administration to children. However, Congress will still need to set an appropriate excise tax on any new vaccines recommended by CDC before those vaccines are effectively covered under the VICP. Under the current statutory language, 8 years’ retroactive coverage will be provided for those claiming injury or death resulting from a vaccine newly added to the VICP.
