CDC Scales-Back Childhood Vaccination Schedule: Here's What To Know

Following a directive from President Donald Trump, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention has decreased the number of recommended vaccines for all children.

The decision comes after a scientific assessment that examined childhood immunization schedules in 20 peer countries. The review found that the United States recommends vaccines for more diseases and a higher total number of doses than any other developed nation, but does not achieve higher vaccination rates as a result.

In contrast, many peer countries maintain strong child health outcomes while recommending fewer routine vaccines, often relying more on public trust and education rather than mandates.

All vaccines currently advised by the CDC will remain available and fully covered by insurance without cost-sharing. The CDC will continue organizing childhood immunizations into three categories:

- recommended for all children

- recommended for certain high-risk groups

- based on shared clinical decision-making

Vaccines for serious diseases such as measles, polio, tetanus, and chickenpox will remain in the category recommended for all children.

Federal health officials said the updated approach is intended to protect children while improving transparency, rebuilding public trust, and allowing families and physicians to make informed decisions. The assessment also highlighted a decline in public trust in health institutions between 2020 and 2024, along with falling vaccination rates.

"Effective today, America will no longer require 72 'jabs' for our beautiful, healthy children," President Trump said on Truth Social. "Many Americans, especially the 'MAHA Moms,' have been praying for these COMMON SENSE reforms for many years."

View the fact sheet here.