U.S. cuts in vaccine recommendations may affect Canadians

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control announced a reduction in routine childhood vaccine recommendations from 17 to 11. Canadian health officials say Canada will continue its own evidence-based vaccine recommendations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control announced a reduction in routine childhood vaccine recommendations from 17 to 11. Canadian doctors have raised concerns about potential cross-border effects. They report this could contribute to increased vaccine hesitancy and higher risk of disease entering Canada via travel. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada said Canadian recommendations will remain based on national evidence and will not mirror the U.S. change. Key points: - The U.S. CDC announced routine child vaccine recommendations were reduced from 17 to 11, removing guidance for several diseases including COVID-19 and influenza. - Canadian physicians warned the change could increase vaccine hesitancy and lead to more cases crossing the border through travel. - Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada stated that Canada's vaccine recommendations will continue to be based on Canadian evidence. - Some Canadian doctors expressed concern about added strain on health systems if vaccine-preventable illnesses rise. Summary: Canadian clinicians warn the U.S. change could lead to higher disease transmission and more vaccine hesitancy, which may affect health system demand. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada say Canadian vaccine guidance will remain unchanged. Undetermined at this time.