US vaccine recommendation changes are confusing, doctors say

Federal guidance now places several childhood vaccines under risk‑based or 'shared clinical decision‑making' recommendations, and pediatricians say the wording is creating confusion for clinicians and families.

Federal vaccine guidance changed this week and has removed universal recommendations for several childhood vaccines. The revisions have been described as unprecedented and confusing by some clinicians. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the changes align U.S. policy with peer nations and emphasize transparency and informed consent. Pediatricians report the wording is raising questions among families and could affect how shots are delivered. Key points: - Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the revisions and said they better align the U.S. with peer nations while strengthening transparency and informed consent. - Vaccines that protect against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rotavirus, RSV, flu and meningococcal disease are no longer universally recommended; some are now advised only for high‑risk groups or through 'shared clinical decision‑making.' - The American Academy of Pediatrics and more than 200 medical, public health and patient advocacy groups sent a letter to Congress asking for investigation of the schedule changes. - Pediatricians say the phrase 'shared clinical decision‑making' is widely misunderstood and that the change may complicate how and where children receive vaccinations. Summary: Doctors report the changes could increase vaccine hesitancy and complicate delivery of childhood immunizations. Undetermined at this time.