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Medical leaders criticize the CDC’s new vaccine guidance, calling it “dangerous,” as it reduces recommended shots for children, raising public health concerns.
WASHINGTON — Medical leaders are reacting to the CDC’s new vaccine guidance for children – and it’s been swift and sharp.
The American Academy of Pediatrics released a statement saying the changes are “dangerous and unnecessary.”
The Infectious Diseases Society of America called the decision “a reckless step”.
The CDC announced Monday it was overhauling the vaccine schedule and recommending fewer shots for children.
Previous recommendations went from protections against about 17 diseases, down to vaccine recommendations to protect against 11 diseases for most children.
The guidelines will still recommend vaccines to guard against 11 diseases – including measles, mumps, and the chicken pox.
But, other vaccines will be recommended for high-risk groups. The agency says immunizations for things like the flu, or Hepatitis A and B will now be decided by parents and their child’s doctor.
For a breakdown of the recommendation changes:
The CDC says the new schedule follows vaccine guidelines from peer nations – like Denmark where fewer shots are recommended.
Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. in a statement said, “This decision protects children, respects families, and rebuilds trust in public health.”
But, leaders with the American Academy of Pediatrics warned the U.S. shouldn’t follow other countries because our vaccine recommendations protect against diseases with known impacts in America.
“You can’t just copy and paste public health,” said Dr. Sean O’Leary, American Academy of Pediatrics. “Seem to be doing that here.”
Dr. Sean O’Leary sits on the Infectious Diseases Committee with the American Academy of Pediatrics.
He says their vaccine schedule is rooted in decades of research and leaders says they will continue to publish their own recommendations.
“No evidence to believe Denmark is safer. What we do know – is that any time a child goes without these recommendations they’re at risk for diseases we can prevent,” said O’Leary.
The Maryland Department of Health said they plan to keep following guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Health and Human Services officials said insurance providers will continue to cover the cost of all vaccines.
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