Wisconsin health leaders are urging continued COVID-19 vaccination for children and pregnant women, even after federal officials announced a controversial shift in guidance.
The state’s Department of Health Services (DHS) reaffirmed its recommendation following a statement by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who claimed the vaccine would no longer be advised for these groups — a claim unsupported by new scientific evidence.
In a June 4 statement, DHS emphasized that the updated federal guidance lacked grounding in fresh data, medical studies, or the typical review processes that ensure public health decisions are sound.
Though children tend to experience milder cases of COVID-19, they can still spread the virus to higher-risk individuals. Pregnant women, on the other hand, are significantly more vulnerable.
COVID-19 infection during pregnancy increases the risk of complications such as severe illness, hospitalization, and premature birth. Health experts stress that vaccination not only protects mothers but also provides crucial antibodies to newborns, enhancing their early immunity.
Dr. Amy Domeyer, a Madison OB-GYN and past chair of the Wisconsin section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), continues to recommend the vaccine to her pregnant patients. She stresses that the science remains unchanged: the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective during pregnancy.
“My goal is for you to have the safest, healthiest pregnancy possible,” she tells her patients. “For that reason, I recommend the COVID vaccine.”
While the federal change may influence insurance coverage, Wisconsin’s Medicaid program will still cover the vaccine. State health leaders hope private insurers in Wisconsin will follow suit.
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is expected to revisit vaccine guidance later this month. Until then, health officials like Dr. Domeyer and UW-Madison public health expert Dr. Patrick Remington recommend that patients consult their doctors directly for personalized advice.
Remington expressed concern that federal inconsistency could erode public trust. “When government agencies disagree, the public may feel they can’t believe anyone,” he said. However, he emphasized that scientific debate is healthy — but should remain within professional and evidence-based forums, not driven by personal ideology.
Despite the uncertainty, health officials remain clear on one point: Vaccination, especially for pregnant women and children in consultation with doctors, remains a key tool in protecting community health.
As of now, less than 20% of Wisconsin residents have received the latest COVID-19 vaccine, with seniors making up nearly half of those vaccinated. Experts hope reinforced state support and continued dialogue between patients and doctors will improve uptake in vulnerable groups.
