US health officials cut routine childhood vaccine list

US health authorities have reduced the number of vaccines routinely recommended for all children from 17 to 11.

Vaccines for rotavirus, hepatitis A and B, meningitis and seasonal flu are now recommended mainly for high-risk children or through shared decision-making.

The revised schedule follows a directive to compare US childhood vaccination policy with other developed countries.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the changes aim to realign the US schedule with international practices.

After an exhaustive review of the evidence, we are aligning the US childhood vaccine schedule with international consensus.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said.

Officials said the assessment compared vaccination policies across 20 developed countries.

The changes were introduced without a formal public consultation or input from vaccine manufacturers.

Epidemiologist Michael Osterholm warned the move could undermine public confidence in child health protections.

This wildly irresponsible decision will sow further doubt and confusion among parents and put children's lives at risk.

Michael Osterholm said.

Health officials said falling vaccination uptake, including measles coverage, influenced the policy shift.

Authorities stressed that no vaccines were removed and that all remain available and covered by insurance.

Federal agencies said new long-term placebo-controlled studies on vaccine timing and effects are being planned.