CDC Updates Childhood Immunization Schedule

On Jan. 5, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updates to the U.S. Childhood Immunization Schedule, reducing the number of recommended vaccines from 17 to 11. The other vaccines have been recategorized as appropriate for high-risk groups or following shared clinical decision-making between providers and families. HHS and CDC stated that these updated recommendations reflect international comparisons, scientific evidence, and trends in vaccine uptake and public trust. The HHS FAQ document accompanying the updates states that “All immunizations recommended by the CDC as of December 31, 2025, will continue to be fully covered by Affordable Care Act insurance plans and federal insurance programs.”

In response to the announcement, more than 230 medical and public health organizations asked Congress to “conduct swift and robust oversight” regarding the changes as they were made without public input or a review by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. The letter also notes that the changes could lead to confusion; lower vaccination rates; and increase hospitalizations, outbreaks, and deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Cigna Healthcare will continue to cover all 17 vaccines as preventive services at no additional cost to customers, regardless of whether the vaccine is universally recommended, risk-based, or subject to shared decision-making.