AOA statement on new HHS guidelines decreasing childhood vaccine recommendations

The American Osteopathic Association, representing more than 207,000 osteopathic physicians and medical students nationwide, supports immunizations as essential preventive care that shield individuals from avoidable illnesses and curb the spread of disease. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recent overhaul of the U.S. childhood immunization schedule drastically modified long-standing vaccine recommendations, decreasing the number of vaccines recommended for all children.

Historically, the childhood vaccine schedule relied on decades of rigorous scientific evidence demonstrating the safety and efficacy of routine immunizations in preventing severe disease, disability and death. By contrast, the current revision eliminates broad recommendations for influenza, rotavirus, meningococcal disease, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and others, overlooking the fact that these vaccines have saved millions from hospitalization and death. We caution that these decisions could lead to a rise in preventable illnesses and jeopardize public health advancements achieved over generations.

We affirm our commitment to a patient-centered approach to care, emphasizing shared decision-making fostered by trust between patients and physicians. As a dedicated organization promoting public health, we view vaccination as a vital defense against avoidable illness.