HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is planning a major overhaul of the U.S. childhood vaccination schedule. The new plan likely mirrors Denmark’s model, which requires fewer routine immunizations. This shift follows President Trump’s directive to align American health policy with "peer, developed countries."
The current U.S. schedule protects children against 17 different diseases. Denmark’s program omits routine shots for illnesses like chickenpox, hepatitis, and the flu. Supporters argue this approach streamlines public health, while critics warn it could lead to dangerous outbreaks.
Public health experts expressed concern that bypassing established review committees could erode public trust. Measles cases have already hit their highest level in decades, with nearly 2,000 cases recorded this year. Many states and medical groups may continue following older guidelines despite the federal shift.
The move would also bypass the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Kennedy recently replaced the entire 17-member committee with a smaller panel of hand-picked experts. This new group has already ended routine hepatitis B vaccinations at birth, citing safety concerns.+1
Liability protection for vaccine manufacturers remains a significant unresolved issue. Federal legal safeguards are currently tied to official government recommendations. Changing these standards could expose companies to lawsuits and threaten the national vaccine supply.