COLUMBUS, Ohio — A panel of advisers for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has decided not to issue a broad recommendation for the updated COVID-19 vaccine this season, instead urging individuals to consult with their health care providers about whether to receive the shot.

Despite the CDC panel’s decision, the American Academy of Family Physicians is recommending the vaccine for everyone 6 months and older.

Dr. Mark Bugada, a resident family physician at OhioHealth, emphasized the benefits of vaccination.

“These vaccines can help decrease the risk of severe infections, decrease hospitalization and also decrease death as well,” Bugada said.

Bugada said children in particular can benefit from the COVID-19 vaccine, as their immune systems are still developing and they a

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