Federal vaccine panel meeting canceled after HHS misses deadlines

Vaccine advisory panel meeting abruptly canceled

A key federal vaccine advisory meeting scheduled for next week has been canceled. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the postponement to STAT.

The panel, known as the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), advises the CDC on vaccine use. Its meetings are typically public and scheduled well in advance.

No reason given for the postponement

HHS did not provide a reason for canceling the upcoming meeting. The agency also did not announce a new date for the rescheduled session.

This type of last-minute cancellation is unusual for the ACIP. The committee plays a critical role in reviewing data and making national vaccine recommendations.

The ACIP's role in public health

The independent panel of medical experts is central to the U.S. immunization schedule. Its responsibilities include:

• Reviewing clinical trial data for new vaccines
• Voting on recommendations for their use in different age groups
• Weighing evidence on safety and effectiveness for the public

The CDC director almost always adopts the committee's recommendations, which then guide vaccination policy for doctors and insurers nationwide.

Uncertainty follows sudden schedule change

The cancellation creates immediate uncertainty. The agenda for the now-canceled meeting had not been publicly posted, so it is unclear which specific vaccine discussions are being delayed.

Such meetings often review data on upcoming seasonal flu shots, childhood immunization schedules, or new vaccine candidates. The postponement could delay important public health guidance.

STAT first reported the meeting's cancellation. HHS has not yet issued a public statement on the matter.