After nearly a month of suspense, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have finally allowed states to order this season’s COVID-19 vaccines through their Vaccines for Children program. Despite the vaccines having been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in late August, states were left waiting for a decision, which has raised eyebrows and concerns.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the delay was due to CDC officials not finalizing procurement decisions. However, Ars Technica reported that part of the reason for the delay was the need to finalize the CDC’s clinical guidance, which needed to be reviewed by an external expert. This guidance is essential for health care professionals and public health officials.

Minnesota Department of Health spokesperson suggested that CDC leadership was behind the hold, stating that the state had been told that CDC leadership approval was needed before the vaccine could be distributed. The Washington Post reported that CDC career officials had finished preparations for making the vaccines available, and that all that was required was for Trump officials to push a button to open orders, a task that was clearly more complicated than expected.

These delays, particularly in a program that provides free immunizations to low-income children, have prompted questions about the priorities and decision-making processes of the Trump administration. The lack of a clear explanation for the delay, especially from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., raises concerns about possible interference from anti-vaccine interests.