CDC Panel Backs Merck RSV Antibody for Infants

The newly reconstituted Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), appointed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., voted 5-2 to recommend Merck's monoclonal antibody clesrovimab (Enflonsia) for infants under 8 months who lack protection from a maternal RSV vaccine. The panel also unanimously recommended adding Enflonsia to the federal Vaccines for Children program to improve access for uninsured and underinsured families. This follows FDA approval of Enflonsia earlier in June. Data presented to ACIP showed the antibody significantly reduces RSV-related hospitalizations and severe infections in infants. The final decision on the recommendation now awaits approval from the CDC director or Secretary Kennedy. Public health experts have welcomed the move as a positive step for infant health protection amid ongoing scrutiny of the panel's composition.