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US Alters Childhood Vaccine Recommendations, Reducing Number of Shots

KVIA•Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 12:02 AM•CNN

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The US Department of Health and Human Services has revised its childhood vaccination schedule, recommending fewer vaccines for most children. While vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, polio, chickenpox, and HPV remain mandatory, vaccinations for meningococcal disease, hepatitis B, and hepatitis A will now be limited to children at higher risk. This change follows a notable rise in flu cases, with nine pediatric deaths reported this season. Parents are advised to consult healthcare providers about vaccines for flu, Covid-19, and rotavirus. Critics warn that these changes could lead to outbreaks of preventable diseases, raising concerns about public health and vaccine confidence.

Key Details: • Consult with healthcare providers regarding flu, Covid-19, and rotavirus vaccines. • Vaccines for meningococcal disease, hepatitis B, and hepatitis A are now limited to high-risk children. • All insurers will continue to cover vaccines without cost-sharing. • Changes in the vaccination schedule aim to align more closely with other developed nations.

public-health flu vaccines child-health immunizations

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpCenters for Disease Control and PreventionRobert F. Kennedy Jr.Department of Health and Human ServicesAmerican Academy of PediatricsDr. Caitlin RiversDr. Sean O’LearyDr. Michelle FiscusCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services

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