WASHINGTON (AP) — In an unprecedented move, the U.S. has revised its childhood vaccination recommendations, reducing the number of vaccines encouraged and allowing families more discretion in choosing immunizations like flu shots.
Officials with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that this overhaul is not expected to jeopardize access or insurance coverage for vaccines. However, the decision has drawn sharp criticism from medical experts, who warn that it may lead to a decline in vaccination rates and a rise in preventable diseases.
The changes followed President Donald Trump’s directive last December to evaluate U.S. vaccine guidelines in comparison to those of peer countries, suggesting that the U.S. was an outlier regarding vaccination numbers and doses.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the update, claiming it aims to bolster public trust by prioritizing only essential immunizations for children.
Despite this assurance, health professionals argue that the abrupt nature of these recommendations, made without robust public dialogue or comprehensive data reviews, could jeopardize children's health. Michael Osterholm from the Vaccine Integrity Project cautioned that loosening guidance on vaccines against diseases like influenza and hepatitis could lead to unnecessary hospitalizations and fatalities.
The debate continues about the balance between maintaining public health standards and addressing parental choice in vaccinations, with experts urging for clarity and an evidence-based approach in future communications.
