HHS rejects publication of study showing Covid-19 vaccines prevent hospitalizations, ER visits
CNN
Last updated: April 23, 2026
COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduced the likelihood of severe illness requiring emergency room visits or hospitalization among US adults during the fall and winter months. This protective effect was observed even with the circulation of new variants, highlighting the continued efficacy of vaccination in preventing serious outcomes.
- COVID-19 vaccines approximately halved the risk for US adults of needing emergency room care or hospitalization due to infection. This finding is based on data from the fall and winter seasons.
- The effectiveness of vaccines in preventing severe disease remained substantial.
- This protection was evident even as newer variants of the virus were circulating.
- The data suggests that vaccination plays a crucial role in mitigating the burden on healthcare systems by reducing hospitalizations and emergency room visits.
- The study's findings underscore the public health benefits of widespread vaccination campaigns.
- These results are derived from information available to individuals familiar with the data.
- The reduction in severe outcomes is a key indicator of vaccine performance against infection.
- The period analyzed, fall and winter, represents a critical time for respiratory virus circulation.
- The findings offer reassurance regarding the protective capacity of vaccines against serious COVID-19 consequences.
