What Ohio Families Need to Know About Changes to the Federal Childhood Vaccine Schedule

On January 5, 2026, federal health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a substantial reduction in the recommended childhood vaccination schedule from 17 to 11. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B and rotavirus are among those recommended only for high-risk children or after consultation with a health care provider.  

A statement from the Ohio American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) denotes opposition to the newest federal guidance, indicating these changes work against evidence-based practices that have protected Ohio children for decades. Ohio AAP continues to recommend routine immunizations against all 17 diseases, noting they are “safe, effective, and backed by strong science.” 

This reflects similar responses from the American Medical Association, the Children’s Hospital Association, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, with each having firmly asseverated the previous U.S. childhood vaccination schedule has been based on decades of research designed to protect children. Disruptions to vaccine coverage leaves children vulnerable against diseases that had previously been considered contained under universal immunization practices. 

While the CDC’s new vaccine schedule is not a mandate but rather a recommendation, experts at AAP have raised concern that this change can create uncertainty and lead to lessened vaccine uptake. 

In a press conference on January 7, 2026, Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Director of the Ohio Department of Health, addressed the issue, noting that there are no immediate changes to health insurance coverage of all 17 previously recommended vaccines.

Director Vanderhoff anticipates “pediatricians almost certainly will continue to recommend these vaccines to their patients.” 

We recognize that any changes in federal guidance can raise questions for best practices to keep children safe and healthy. If you are the parent of a young child, we recommend discussing vaccine safety and efficacy with your child's pediatrician to determine the best possible choice.

Follow the Ohio AAP to stay informed and follow this issue.