Article Summary –
The U.S. has reduced the number of vaccines recommended for all children from a broad spectrum to focus on 11 diseases, excluding vaccines for flu, rotavirus, hepatitis, and others, now only suggested for high-risk groups or based on doctor consultation. This decision, influenced by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and requested by President Trump, has been criticized by medical experts and organizations for lacking public discussion and transparency, potentially leading to increased preventable diseases. Despite this federal recommendation, states hold the authority for vaccination requirements, with some states forming alliances against these federal changes.
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. made an unprecedented move Monday, reducing the recommended vaccines for children, a decision that medical groups warn could weaken protection against six key diseases.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now advises vaccination against 11 diseases. Vaccines for flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, certain meningitis types, and RSV are recommended only for high-risk groups or through “shared decision-making” with doctors.
Despite assurances from Trump administration officials that vaccine access will continue and insurance will cover costs, experts fear confusion and a rise in preventable diseases.
Though CDC recommendations often influence state vaccination laws, states control school vaccination requirements. Some states are forming alliances to counter the Trump administration’s new guidance.
U.S. vaccination rates are dropping, with more children exempt from vaccines, while diseases like measles and whooping cough are increasing.
Review requested by President Trump
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said this overhaul followed a December request from President Trump to reevaluate U.S. vaccine guidance based on international practices.
HHS found the U.S. was an “outlier” in the number of recommended vaccines and doses compared to 20 peer nations. Officials believe the change will enhance public trust by focusing on essential vaccinations.
“This decision protects children, respects families, and rebuilds trust in public health,” stated Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Trump praised the new schedule on Truth Social, saying it aligns the U.S. with other developed nations.
Vaccines for measles, whooping cough, polio, tetanus, chickenpox, and HPV remain universally recommended. The HPV vaccine schedule is reduced to one dose for most children.
Medical experts criticize the lack of public discussion and data transparency, warning of increased hospitalizations and preventable deaths. Michael Osterholm of the Vaccine Integrity Project highlighted the risks of dropping recommendations for flu, hepatitis, and rotavirus vaccines.
Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasized the importance of tailored vaccine recommendations based on disease prevalence and health system capabilities.
Most high-income countries recommend vaccines for 12-15 pathogens. France recommends vaccinations against 14 diseases, compared to the U.S.’s revised list of 11.
Doctors’ groups criticize decision
Dr. O’Leary noted that political appointees made these changes without evidence that the current recommendations were harmful. The American Academy of Pediatrics continues to recommend broader vaccines than those demoted by the Trump administration.
O’Leary particularly criticized the removal of the flu vaccine from the universal recommendation, amid a severe flu season following 280 child flu deaths last winter.
Concerns were raised about the potential resurgence of rotavirus, a disease that once hospitalized thousands of children each winter.
Senior HHS officials said the decision lacked input from the usual advisory committee process. CDC scientists were consulted but not allowed to give recommendations.
Dr. Sandra Fryhofer of the American Medical Association stressed the need for rigorous review and scientific justification, which she stated was lacking in this decision. The AMA supports continued access to medically recommended childhood vaccinations.
Kennedy’s vaccine skepticism influences guidance
Kennedy, a known vaccine skeptic, has influenced national policy to reflect his views. In May, he announced the CDC would not recommend COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children and pregnant women, a decision questioned by health experts.
In June, Kennedy dismissed a 17-member CDC vaccine advisory committee, replacing them with skeptics. In November, he directed the CDC to change its stance on vaccines and autism, without new evidence.
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