Vaccines for measles, mumps, rubella, polio, pertussis, tetanus, Hib, pneumococcal disease, HPV, and chickenpox remain universal

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a big change to childhood vaccines, reducing the number of shots from 18 to 11.

The change, modeled on Denmark’s schedule, aims to restore public trust after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The major change comes after Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. considered aligning the US childhood vaccination schedule with Denmark’s.

While experts warn the shift may confuse parents, reduce vaccination rates, and endanger children, officials stress that all previously recommended vaccines remain available and covered by insurance. 

According to critics, the decision lacks transparency and proper scientific review.