Trump Pushes Overhaul of US Childhood Vaccine Policy
Trump's executive order calls for fewer, spaced-out childhood vaccines. Medical experts warn this lacks scientific backing and puts kids at risk.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday that proposes major changes to the US childhood vaccine policy. The order recommends fewer combined immunizations, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which would be separated into three single-dose shots instead. Trump stated that this move benefits parents' rights, religious freedoms, and constitutional rights, as well as adheres to scientific standards.
The government will support 11 core childhood vaccines, but school vaccine mandates largely remain under state control. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had previously sought to remove six vaccines from the childhood schedule, which the order reaffirms. Public health experts warn that spreading shots across more appointments can leave children vulnerable to preventable diseases and increase the risk of delayed or missed doses.
Vaccine maker Merck stated there is no scientific evidence supporting the benefits of splitting the MMR vaccine. Health experts, including Aaron M. Milstone of the American Academy of Pediatrics, emphasize the importance of maintaining the current schedule due to its extensive safety data. Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician and Senate health committee chairman, criticized the order, arguing it is beyond the president's expertise to make such changes.
NYC Health Commissioner Alister Martin dismissed the move as based on politics and conspiracy theories. The policy shift comes as the US faces its worst measles outbreak in 35 years, and children prepare to return to school.
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