Edwin Asturias, MD (professor of pediatrics, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine and director of Latin American Projects, Center for Global Health, Department of Epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health), has received an invitation from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to join the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). His appointment is scheduled to commence on July 1, 2024 and conclude on June 30, 2028.
The ACIP, established under Section 222 of the Public Health Service Act, assumes a pivotal role in advising the director of the CDC on the optimal utilization of vaccines and related agents to effectively combat vaccine-preventable diseases. This advisory committee furnishes recommendations on the general application of vaccines and immune globulin preparations, offers guidance on specific antibody products for disease prevention and determines any necessary modifications to standard immunization recommendations tailored to specific populations or scenarios. Furthermore, in compliance with Section 1928 of the Social Security Act, the ACIP is responsible for delineating, routinely evaluating and revising the roster of vaccines designated for children and adolescents eligible for immunizations under the Vaccines for Children Program.
Membership in the ACIP is extended to individuals acknowledged for their proficiency in immunization practices and public health. These experts exhibit specialized knowledge in vaccine administration, immunobiological agents in clinical or preventive medicine, clinical or laboratory vaccine research, and assessments of vaccine efficacy and safety.
At present, Dr. Asturias occupies the Jules Amer Chair in Community Pediatrics at Children's Hospital.