Overview
- The Department of Public Health directed clinicians to use the American Academy of Pediatrics schedule, exercising authority granted by a 2025 state law to set independent standards.
- On Jan. 5 the acting CDC director reduced universal pediatric recommendations, shifting vaccines for hepatitis A and B, influenza, rotavirus, COVID-19, meningococcal disease, and RSV to high-risk or shared decision-making.
- Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein called the federal change “reckless and deeply dangerous,” arguing it replaces transparent, evidence-based guidance with uncertainty.
- Massachusetts is coordinating through the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, and several partner states plus New York City are also following AAP-aligned guidance.
- National medical groups and allies have moved to overturn the federal changes with a Feb. 13 hearing scheduled, and officials say insurance will continue to cover all vaccinations for children.