New procedures leave vaccinations against, for example, flu or rotavirus up to parents.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) decided on Monday to reduce the number of vaccines it recommends for each child. It was reported by the AP agency, which called it an unprecedented step. As part of the change, which implements guidelines similar to the Danish system with immediate effect, it is recommended that all American children be vaccinated against 11 diseases instead of the current 18, TASR writes.
“The loss of confidence during the pandemic has not only affected vaccination rates against COVID-19. It has also contributed to non-adherence to the CDC’s complete vaccination schedule for children and lower rates of vaccination against common diseases such as measles, rubella, whooping cough and polio,” according to the scientific review the CDC relied on in its decision.
CDC officials acknowledged that the change was made without consulting the advisory board, which typically provides its opinion on similar issues. According to the AP, the new procedures leave vaccinations against, for example, flu or rotavirus up to parents, but without clear instructions.
Officials say the change will not result in some families losing access to vaccinations or insurance coverage. However, experts criticized this move and warned that it could lead to a decrease in interest in important vaccinations and the spread of diseases.
In December, US President Donald Trump advised the Department of Health to review how other developed nations approach childhood vaccinations and consider revising their guidelines to align them with those countries’ approaches. At the time, Trump said that by January 2025, “the U.S. has recommended that all children be vaccinated against 18 diseases,” making them “significantly ahead” in that regard.
