The committee’s decision, passed with a 5-1 vote, restricts flu vaccines to those free of thimerosal, a mercury-containing compound that has been scrutinized for potential links to autism spectrum disorder and other developmental issues.
Thimerosal was largely phased out in 2001, but it remains present in some flu shots. The committee’s ruling mandates that flu vaccines for children 18 and under, as well as pregnant women, must be thimerosal-free.
This decision comes from a newly appointed eight-member committee established by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, following the removal of the previous 17-member committee.
Additionally, the committee has instituted a policy requiring annual flu shots for everyone aged six months and older who do not have a risk of side effects.
