longer.blue

“ RFK Jr.’s overhaul of U.S. vaccine policy has left new vaccines in limbo, with patients now paying out of pocket for shots that used to be free. After a judge blocked Kennedy’s attempt to replace the government’s vaccine advisory committee with his handpicked allies, Kennedy hasn’t appointed any new members, meaning no new vaccine recommendations are being issued. Without a recommendation, insurers aren’t required to cover newly approved vaccines, like Moderna’s new mRNA flu shot for adults 50 and up, potentially until January 2029. One retired public health worker was charged a $40 co-pay for the shot, saying, “I’ve never had to pay for a flu shot in my life.” Even Kennedy’s own former lawyer accused the White House and Justice Department of “doing everything they can to make sure that there is no functioning vaccine committee.” Experts warn the committee may never return to how it was without new legal protections from Congress.”. From Aaron Parnas newsletter