Overview
- Acting CDC Director Jim O’Neill finalized guidance that removes universal recommendations for influenza, COVID-19, RSV, rotavirus, hepatitis A and B, and meningococcal vaccines, while reducing HPV to a single dose.
- The schedule now groups shots as universal, high risk, or shared clinical decision-making, with some vaccines available only after a clinician recommends them.
- The move followed a December directive from President Donald J. Trump to align with peer nations, a rationale critics say overlooks major differences in U.S. health care and population risk.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, and infectious-disease leaders condemned the change as unsafe and confusing during active outbreaks, urging adherence to the prior evidence-based schedule.
- HHS says insurers must keep covering vaccines recommended as of December 31, 2025, yet experts foresee access hurdles from stocking, payment and provider-authorization rules, as states prepare divergent policies and potential legal challenges.