US cuts number of recommended childhood vaccines in blow to public health
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reducing the number of vaccines recommended for children that protect against 11 diseases instead of the 17 it previously recommended.
Hepatitis B vaccines are among those affected by newly announced vaccine program changes at the CDC.
for elissa pointer Washington Post Via Getty Images
The top public health body in the US on Monday minus Number of vaccines recommended for children. The move comes just weeks after President Donald Trump ordered health officials to bring the country’s vaccine program in line with “peer, developed countries.” In practice, this means the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will no longer recommend shots to prevent 17 diseases; Instead it will recommend vaccines against 11 diseases. Experts say the changes, which will take effect immediately, will put children at risk.
The CDC now recommends that all children receive vaccines for polio, measles, mumps and rubella, chickenpox, Haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal disease, human papillomavirus (HPV), tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. High-risk groups or populations may also be recommended shots for dengue, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningococcal ACWY, meningococcal B and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. For other illnesses, including Covid and seasonal flu, the agency recommends consulting a doctor.
“This is[a]huge, unprecedented change that destroys decades of success with childhood vaccines, ultimately making it harder for Americans to access vaccines,” says Caitlin Zetlina, an epidemiologist who started and helped write the popular newsletter Your Local Epidemiologist. “Fewer children will be vaccinated and this decision will harm children.”
On supporting science journalism
If you enjoyed this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism Subscribing By purchasing a subscription, you are helping ensure a future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
recently statementThe American Academy of Pediatrics condemned the move, saying it would “create chaos and confusion and undermine trust in vaccinations. This is no way to make our country healthier.” The organization said it continued to support disease vaccination superseded by CDC recommendations and pledged to publish its own recommendations.
This decision is likely to be challenged in court.
Additional reporting by Tanya Lewis.
Editor’s note (1/5/26): This article was edited after posting to include updated information. This is a breaking news story and may be updated later.
It’s time to stand up for science
If you enjoyed this article, I would like to ask for your support. scientific American He has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most important moment in that two-century history.
i have been one scientific American I’ve been a member since I was 12, and it’s helped shape the way I see the world. Science Always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does the same for you.
if you agree scientific AmericanYou help ensure that our coverage focuses on meaningful research and discovery; We have the resources to report on decisions that put laboratories across America at risk; And that we support both emerging and working scientists at a time when the value of science is too often recognised.
In return, you get the news you need, Captivating podcasts, great infographics, Don’t miss the newsletter, be sure to watch the video, Challenging games, and the best writing and reporting from the world of science. you can even Gift a membership to someone.
There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you will support us in that mission.
