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Dear USET/USET SPF Family,
Over the last few months, the Trump Administration has demonstrated increased interest in the safety and efficacy of vaccines, particularly the COVID-19 vaccine. Recently, the Administration changed the public health recommendations and clinical licensing for the COVID-19 vaccine to indicate that only elders age 65 and older and certain high-risk groups receive the vaccination. While this is concerning, given the impact COVID-19 had on Tribal communities, we are equally concerned that other vaccine recommendations are underway that may be detrimental to health of our nation. The Advisory Council on Immunization Practices (ACIP), which membership was recently revised by the current Administration, is scheduled to meet September 18-19, 2025 to review and discuss other vaccine recommendations. The agenda details are currently unknown, but there are concerns that existing vaccines with proven track records of safety and efficacy will be re-evaluated without new or emerging data or a full understanding of vaccine science.
The United South and Eastern Tribes Tribal Epidemiology Center (USET TEC) remains committed to the health and wellness of the communities we serve and will continue to monitor the latest available data and provide recommendations based on scientific evidence and rooted in the best interest of the Tribal Nations.
USET TEC Vaccine Recommendations:
- All people aged 6 months and older should be vaccinated for COVID-19, regardless of pregnancy or other health status, unless contraindicated.
- Follow American Academy of Pediatrics’ childhood vaccination schedule.
- Follow American Academy of Family Physicians’ adult vaccination schedule.
Background
The USET TEC has grown increasingly concerned about what we perceive as a misrepresentation of vaccine science and data by the Trump Administration. We believe that the Administration’s changes to the federal vaccine recommendations and licensing may lead to significant increases in communicable diseases rates and death across the nation, with AI/AN populations and communities at disproportionately higher risk.
We join numerous other professional organizations and experts, such as the American Medical Association (AMA), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), American Association of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), American Public Health Association (APHA), and many others, in opposing vaccine changes that may have lasting impacts to our nation.
Future Considerations
The Florida surgeon general has proposed that vaccination no longer be mandatory for children attending public school. The USET TEC believes there is a possibility that other states may follow. This may impact Tribal schools and daycares and reduce the number of vaccinated children in the Tribal community. Consistent with applicable law, Tribal Nations may wish to prepare to issue their own guidelines/mandates for these facilities. As always, the USET TEC is available for consultation.
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