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Tallahassee, Fla. — In a historic decision, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced today that the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines have been removed from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommended immunization schedule for healthy children and pregnant women.

This decision marks a major turning point in national health policy—one that reflects growing concerns about the safety, necessity, and scientific basis for the use of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in vulnerable populations.

Florida has played a critical role in shaping the national conversation on this issue. In March 2022, Florida became the first state to formally recommend against COVID-19 mRNA vaccinations for healthy children. In January 2024, Florida made history again as the first state to recommend against the use of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines for all populations. Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis and State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo, the state has consistently prioritized data transparency, medical freedom, and parental rights over federal pressure and pharmaceutical influence.

“Florida has continually demanded honest science and accountability in our public health decisions,” said State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. “Today’s federal action, thanks to the tireless efforts of Secretary Kennedy, is an important advancement for parents, physicians, and children across the country. Ultimately, scientific evidence dictates that the use of these products should end for all populations.”

Florida’s stance has been informed by accumulating data on adverse events, including myocarditis, and questions about the long-term efficacy and safety of the vaccine in all populations. The state has also called for greater scrutiny of pharmaceutical influence in federal health recommendations and convened leading experts to examine these issues independently.

The removal of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine from the CDC’s pediatric schedule is an important step, and more must be done. Americans deserve to have medical recommendations that are grounded in sound science, not political agendas. Florida is proud to have led the way in protecting our vulnerable populations and restoring trust in public health.

About the Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

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