Bulwark Takes RFK Jr. Cuts America’s Childhood Vaccine Schedule
Jan 6, 2026
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s proposed changes to the childhood vaccine schedule are raising eyebrows. The reduction from 17 to 11 recommended vaccines could significantly impact public health. Discussions include risks associated with moving vaccines to shared clinical decision-making and the uncertainty it creates for parents and pediatricians. Concerns about liability for providers and the potential threat to vaccine supply are at the forefront. Is this a step toward a broader anti-vaccine agenda, or just a temporary shift in policy?
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Federal Vaccine Schedule Reduced
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s HHS reduced the childhood vaccine schedule from 17 to 11 recommended vaccines.
- This change removes RSV, meningococcal, hepatitis A and B from federal recommendations while keeping MMR, polio, and varicella.
Access For Some Vaccines Tightened
- HHS moved flu, COVID-19, and rotavirus vaccines to "shared clinical decision-making," changing how people access them.
- That may force patients to see a clinician rather than obtain vaccines directly at pharmacies.
Verify How To Get Vaccines Locally
- Expect local confusion and verify vaccine access policies with your state health department and insurer.
- If pharmacies refuse vaccines, ask about requirement changes and request clarification in writing.