Overview
- The revised schedule moves vaccines for hepatitis A and B, rotavirus, influenza, RSV, and meningococcal disease out of universal recommendations and into high‑risk or shared clinical decision‑making, and it endorses a single‑dose HPV regimen.
- HHS says insurers must cover all vaccines recommended as of December 31, 2025, without cost‑sharing, though clinicians warn real‑world access could tighten as stocking and referral practices change.
- Major medical groups including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association condemned the move as dangerous and confusing, warning of increased risk for preventable illness and hospitalizations.
- The overhaul followed a directive from President Trump and was formalized by acting CDC leadership after leadership and advisory‑panel changes, drawing criticism that customary ACIP processes and transparency were bypassed.
- States will decide how to apply the new guidance, with experts forecasting a patchwork of school‑entry requirements, potential legal challenges, and alternate recommendations such as the AAP’s broader schedule.