APIC and SHEA Response to the Federal ACIP Lawsuit Decision

MARCH 17, 2026

The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) support the Federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Lawsuit Decision, which temporarily pauses the vaccine policy changes announced earlier this year. APIC and SHEA believe the outcome of this lawsuit, filed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and other professional societies, will restore clarity and stability to the U.S. vaccine recommendation process. The underlying science, research, and manufacturing that support vaccines have not changed, and childhood vaccinations continue to play an important role in protecting the health and safety of children, families, and communities.

Vaccines remain one of the most effective public health tools available. Routine immunization has helped prevent countless cases of serious illness and saved millions of lives. APIC and SHEA strongly support healthcare worker vaccinations to protect patients and the healthcare workforce from vaccine-preventable diseases, including influenza and other pathogens that often worsen clinical outcomes, especially among immunocompromised patients.

We hope this ruling puts the United States on the path to restoring transparency and confidence in the processes to evaluate vaccines and formulate updated immunization recommendations. We encourage the ACIP to reset its current work processes and make a clear commitment to open deliberation and rigorous, evidence-based review. Ensuring that vaccine recommendations are developed through transparent scientific processes is essential to maintaining public trust and protecting the health of children and adults across the country.