Read about upcoming changes to UnitedHealthcare coverage.
Many families have heard that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently introduced a new childhood vaccine schedule. This updated schedule reduces the number of recommended vaccines, makes some optional, lowers the number of doses for certain vaccines, and limits recommendations for others to children considered high risk.
It’s important to know that this new schedule was developed without the same level of scientific review and rigor that is typically used when researching and recommending vaccines in the United States.
We want to reassure you that Weill Cornell Medicine children’s health providers will continue to recommend the childhood vaccine schedule supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the New York State Department of Health. This schedule is based on thousands of scientific studies that demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of vaccines in protecting children’s health.
There have been no changes to school vaccination requirements in New York State, and no changes are expected at this time. Families should continue following current school immunization guidelines.
At this point, both public and private insurance plans continue to cover recommended childhood vaccines. We do not anticipate changes, but we will keep families informed if anything new arises.
You may notice that vaccine schedules can look different from country to country. This is because each country faces its own unique diseases, public health challenges, and population needs. Differences in schedules do not mean vaccines are unsafe or unnecessary—instead, they reflect local conditions and health priorities.
Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools in modern medicine. That is why we promote ones that help avert severe illness, and even death, for preventable childhood diseases such as measles, pertussis, bacterial meningitis, respiratory virus infections such as RSV and flu, and hepatitis.
Your child’s health and safety are our top priorities. We are committed to partnering with you, answering your questions, and supporting your family in making informed decisions. Together, we will continue to do everything we can to keep children healthy, protected, and thriving.
Questions about recent childhood vaccine guidance? Find a pediatrician for your child's care here.
