Vaccine decision imminent as CDC panel considers expanded Covid-19 vaccination, potentially saving thousands of additional lives based on recent study findings
The US is bracing for a continued substantial burden of disease from COVID-19, according to projections by the US COVID-19 Scenario Modeling Hub. These predictions, published in June 2025, offer a glimpse into the upcoming season and suggest that vaccination strategies could significantly reduce the disease burden.
Dr. Justin Lessler, a professor of epidemiology at the University of North Carolina and a leader with the modeling hub, shared that they are working diligently to make their results more accessible to a broader range of organisations providing vaccine guidance, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The projections indicate that broadening the vaccine recommendation to include all people in the US could save an additional 1,000 lives and prevent an additional 26,000 hospitalizations. Conversely, if updated Covid-19 vaccines are recommended for only high-risk individuals, the estimates suggest it could prevent approximately 90,000 hospitalizations and 7,000 deaths.
The benefits are most pronounced when vaccines are offered to all ages, as the greatest benefits will be seen in this scenario.
The work conducted by the US COVID-19 Scenario Modeling Hub is public and available for consideration by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and other experts. However, it's worth noting that the ACIP underwent a significant restructuring in mid-2025, with US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appointing eight new members, including several critics of COVID-19 vaccines and pandemic measures.
Despite the changes, the projections for this season paint a similar picture to last season, with the virus continuing to pose a significant challenge. The modeling work was not presented at ACIP's June meeting, but the results are available for review and consideration.
All vaccination strategies are projected to significantly reduce the disease burden, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing pandemic. The US COVID-19 Scenario Modeling Hub continues to share their results with the CDC and other relevant organisations, working tirelessly to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to help guide vaccine strategies and combat the ongoing pandemic.
Read also:
- Grains of contemporary wheat now offer fewer essential nutrients
- Uncovered: The First Genetic Analysis of Sweet Potatoes Reveals They Originated as Hybrid Species with a Perplexing History and Six Sets of Chromosomes
- Experience the Variety of Wellness Offered by Jasmine Tea
- Emotional and Memory Pathway: Exploring Cingulum Bundle's Intricacies
