On January 5, 2026, the Acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention signed a memorandum to revise the Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule, significantly reducing the number of vaccinations recommended for U.S. children. This decision bypassed established procedures and could lead to an increase in vaccine-preventable diseases. Illnesses from these diseases may result in missed school days for children and lost work for parents, along with potential hospitalizations and fatalities.

The current immunization schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is based on evidence of vaccine safety and effectiveness, considering factors such as children’s vulnerability, vaccine efficacy, safety, disease risks, healthcare access, and cost-effectiveness. The AAP’s recommendations have traditionally guided discussions between families and healthcare providers.

The recent changes did not reflect new safety data but were instead based on a comparison of vaccination recommendations in the U.S. and other countries, ignoring differing conditions. These changes have not been evaluated by medical experts or the public. Despite the revisions, all immunizations recommended as of December 31, 2025, will still be available and covered by insurers. The West Coast Health Alliance will continue to support access to recommended vaccines.