Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) changed how it categorizes
some childhood vaccines. Instead of recommending them for all children, the CDC now lists
some vaccines as recommended only for certain higher-risk children or through “shared clinical
decision-making” between families and clinicians. These changes affect vaccines for RSV,
hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningococcal disease (ACWY and B), rotavirus, COVID-19, and
influenza.

Pediatricians and public health experts disagree with these changes. The best available
scientific evidence continues to show that these vaccines protect children from serious illness,
hospitalization, and death. For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
continues to recommend vaccinating children according to the AAP vaccine schedule, which
includes all of these vaccines for children.

The AAP has long played a central role in developing vaccine recommendations based on
careful review of scientific evidence. When the CDC was established, the AAP worked
alongside it and other medical organizations to review data, debate evidence, and create
guidance that prioritized children’s health. As the CDC has moved away from this collaborative,
evidence-driven process, the AAP and other medical and public health organizations continue
this work independently.

What does this mean for families?
In daily practice, nothing has changed.
● Vaccines remain available and are covered by insurance.
● Indiana school vaccine requirements remain the same.
● The vast majority of families continue to vaccinate their children according to the AAP
schedule.

What has changed is where families are encouraged to look for trusted vaccine information. I
recommend relying on guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which continues to
review the science carefully and prioritize children’s health and safety. I have included links
below to some of the resources I recommend.

There are broader concerns within the medical community about how changes to national
vaccine policy could affect public confidence and long-term vaccine development. I remain
committed to following the best available science and the recommendations of national pediatric
and public health leaders.

You are always welcome to ask questions about any vaccine. My goal is to make sure you feel
informed, supported, and confident in the care we provide for your child.