UK Chief Medical Officers Overruled JCVI in September 2021 to Vaccinate Children Against COVID-19, Documents Reveal

Dec 9, 2024, 02:08 PM

Documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act reveal that in September 2021, the Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales made the decision to overrule the UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) regarding the COVID-19 vaccination of children. The JCVI had not recommended a mass rollout for children, citing concerns about the risks versus benefits of the vaccine for this age group. The minutes from the meetings indicate that the CMOs proceeded with the vaccination despite these concerns. The decision has sparked controversy, with critics labeling it unethical and unnecessary, arguing that it posed risks without clear benefits for children. The CMOs involved include Chris Whitty, who has since received a knighthood.