Trump administration delays Covid vaccine distribution for children in 11 states and a territory

The Trump administration has paused the provision of updated Covid-19 shots for children through the federal Vaccines for Children (VFC) program in at least 11 states and the territory of American Samoa, leaving no clear date for when supplies will resume. More than half of U.S. children obtain vaccines via VFC, and the decision blocks access for those who are uninsured, on Medicaid, or belong to Native American groups.

Health officials say the delay may be a test for restricting other immunizations under the same program. States with universal purchase agreements, such as Alaska and Washington, are especially impacted because they buy vaccines for all children regardless of insurance status. HHS spokesperson Emily Hilliard confirmed the Covid vaccines are not currently available through VFC and indicated further guidance will be issued soon.