On January 5, the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announced changes to the U.S. childhood vaccine recommendations, directing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to reduce universal vaccine recommendations for children from 17 vaccine preventable diseases to 11.
A reduction in the number and type of vaccines universally recommended means disease protection may wane. Immunization programs at the local and state levels will bear the impacts of communities’ reduced confidence in vaccines and related challenges navigating access, exemptions, and vaccine provision. These changes will likely create confusion and unnecessary barriers for families and clinicians, including school immunization requirements, clinical workflows, and the supply and use of combination vaccines. The impact on local health departments and their communities may vary based on state laws and requirements.
NACCHO has published a new analysis that describes the changes announced, insights from the public health community, helpful resources, and potential implications for local health departments. Read NACCHO’s analysis here.
