Regulatory NewsBREAK: CDC Revises Childhood Immunization Schedule

• On January 5, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revised the childhood and adolescent immunization schedule. 
• The CDC’s decision follows a December 5, 2025, memorandum from President Trump, directing the agency to review best practices from other nations.
• CDC will continue to organize the childhood immunization schedule in three distinct categories, all of which require insurance companies to cover them without cost-sharing:
  • Immunizations Recommended for All Children
  • Immunizations Recommended for Certain High-Risk Groups or Populations
  • Immunizations Based on Shared Clinical Decision-Making
• The immunization schedule continues to recommend that all children are vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Pneumococcal conjugate, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, human papillomavirus (HPV) (while reducing the recommended doses from 2 to 1), and varicella (chickenpox).
• For certain high-risk groups or populations, the CDC recommends immunizations for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, dengue, meningococcal ACWY, and meningococcal B. 
• The recommended immunizations based on shared clinical decision-making are for rotavirus, COVID-19, influenza, meningococcal disease, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B. 
• All immunizations recommended as of December 31, 2025, will continue to be covered by Affordable Care Act insurance plans and federal insurance programs, including Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Vaccines for Children program.  

More on this topic:

• Decision Memorandum
• Immunization Schedule
• Press Release
• Fact Sheet
• Presidential Memorandum 

For questions please reach out to Vicky Jucelin.