Three agencies, three messages

The CDC says get vaccinated if you choose to. New York says everyone should. The American Academy of Pediatrics says it depends on age and risk. Parents are caught in the middle.

Confusion is driving down vaccination

Experts say the conflicting guidance is a major reason fewer people are getting COVID vaccines this year, especially adults.

“As a result, less people are getting vaccinated, particularly the COVID vaccine.”

Youngest kids should get two doses

Experts recommend children ages 6 months to 2 years receive two doses of COVID vaccine separated by time, making this the clearest guidance for any age group.

“Those in that critical age group of 6 months to a couple of years should get two doses of vaccine, separated by a period of time.”

Older kids and young adults differ

Healthy teenagers may not need COVID vaccines, but people ages 18 to 24 should discuss potential side effects with doctors. Adults 65 and older should get vaccinated.

“No one's going to criticize you for not giving a COVID vaccine to a healthy 16-year-old and quite frankly, I probably wouldn't.”

Parents feel lost in the noise

Families say the shifting recommendations from different agencies make it nearly impossible to know what's right for their children.

“It is very confusing and hard to navigate and make decisions when you're getting different information from everywhere.”

Talk to your doctor, officials say

With no agreement among health authorities, doctors and officials are urging families to discuss individual circumstances with their physicians before deciding on vaccination.