What is the process for including a new vaccine in the VFC program and how are immunization programs informed about the changes?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has the advisory role to determine what vaccines should be recommended for administration to children, adolescents, and adults in the U.S. and the operational role to approve which vaccines should be available through the VFC program. The ACIP meets three times a year, and during these meetings newly licensed vaccines may be discussed and recommended for use. Once a vaccine is recommended by ACIP, a vote is taken about whether or not to include the new vaccine in the VFC program through consideration of a VFC resolution. VFC resolutions are specific to each vaccine and include who is eligible to receive the vaccine, the vaccination schedule, and precautions or contraindications to the vaccine. Once the VFC resolution is approved, CDC must negotiate a contract for the vaccine to make it available under the VFC program. VFC resolutions are posted on CDCs website.
Related Questions
- Why is the district pushing these food program changes when the budget is in crisis, school programs might be cut, and teachers could be taken out of classrooms?
- Vaccine Administration Fees What are the statutory requirements for the VFC program regarding the vaccine administration fee?
- How did the Gifted Education program changes fit with the district’s process for making programmatic changes elsewhere?
