Earlier this month, CDC vaccine schedule changes have left many parents confused and concerned about how to best take care of their family. With opposing opinions throughout the media, within the government, and across the globe, it’s difficult for parents to truly understand the safest options for their child’s health.
At Ocean Pediatrics, we understand that navigating these changes can feel overwhelming. As your trusted partner in pediatric care, we’re here to break down what’s new, what it means for your child, and how you can feel confident moving forward. To help, here is an explanation of everything we think parents should know about this new vaccine policy and how to find credible information you can trust.
Vaccine changes: what you should know
- The vaccine changes were triggered by a request from President Trump to have the U.S. childhood vaccine schedule updated if schedules from ‘peer, developed nations’ are superior.
- After review, a revision was proposed and the CDC approved the decision to change to an updated schedule, which can be found here.
- Some vaccines have been removed from the schedule, but all previously recommended vaccines are still available and, according to federal officials, will be covered by insurance.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics does not stand with the new CDC vaccine schedule changes and continues to make their own recommendations which can be found here.
It’s important to note that these new vaccine policy changes are not based on any new data on the safety or efficacy of these vaccines. And as such, Ocean Pediatrics recommends the current vaccine schedule supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
What are the vaccine policy changes?
- Immunizations are being classified in three categories
- Recommended for all children
- Recommended for high-risk children
- Recommended only based on shared clinical decision-making
- The following immunizations are no longer being routinely or universally recommended:
- hepatitis A
- hepatitis B
- respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- rotavirus
- flu
- meningococcal disease
- According to Federal health officials, all of the childhood vaccines appearing on the schedule, will continue to be covered by private and public insurance, including:
- Affordable Care Act plans
- Medicaid
- The Children’s Health Insurance Program
- The Vaccines for Children program
Can patients still receive previously recommended vaccines?
Since new vaccine policy removes previously universally recommended vaccinations, many parents are left wondering what to do if they still want their child to receive the no longer routinely recommended vaccinations. Not to worry, those vaccines are still available and will be recommended based on a shared parent-pediatrician decision.
What is shared clinical decision making?
Vaccinations that are no longer routinely or universally recommended will now be recommended on an individual basis. This means parents will engage in a mutual decision-making process with their pediatrician. At Ocean Pediatrics, our providers will inform parents about additional optional vaccinations, their benefits, and any risks based on their child’s unique health profile. Together, we’ll come to an informed decision that you can feel comfortable with.
Still have questions? Join our webinar and ask a pediatrician!
We wholeheartedly believe that parents deserve clarity and confidence when it comes to making decisions about their child’s health. That is why we are hosting a pediatrician-led Q&A webinar to hear your concerns, answer your questions, and shed light on what these vaccine changes mean for your family. Please join us!
- January 28 @ 6:00 PM PST
- A 45-minute live virtual webinar (link sent upon registration)
- Submit your questions in advance or via chat during the event!
- Free & open to all who wish to attend
- Learn more and register here!
Why vaccine policy changes matter
Immunizations are one of the most powerful ways we can protect our children’s health! Staying up-to-date on vaccines ensures not only individual protection but also keeps our communities safe and thriving.
Changes to vaccine schedules can leave parents feeling stuck, unsure about how to proceed, or feeling skeptical about vaccines altogether. While parents struggle to figure out who to trust and what is best for their child, many kids may fall behind on their recommended doses.
At Ocean Pediatrics, we are proud to have some of the most experienced and trusted pediatricians in Orange County. Our team is here to offer full transparency to our families and compassion as they make their decisions. So, whether you’re up to speed or feeling uncertain, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to walk this journey with you with expert guidance, open dialogue, and care that feels like family.
Book an appointment today to ask your pediatrician about the recent changes, share any concerns, and get the confidence you deserve when it comes to decisions about your child’s health.
Sources and further reading:
Government:
U.S. Health and Human Services’ official press release
HHS Childhood Immunization Schedule
American Academy of Pediatrics:
Commentary from the American Academy of Pediatrics
AAP’s Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule
All About the AAP Recommended Vaccine Schedule
