WHO defends childhood immunization schedules after Trump reduction order

In a recent executive order, President Donald Trump announced plans to limit the number of childhood vaccines and alter the administration of the MMR vaccine. Trump claimed that fewer vaccines would result in healthier children, despite decades of research showing no link between vaccines and autism. The order calls for only 11 core vaccines, rather than the 18 currently recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, would also be split into three separate shots, instead of being administered all at once. Trump suggested that giving the MMR vaccine in one dose could be "quite lethal," though no scientific evidence supports this claim. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the MMR vaccine has a very small risk of febrile seizures, especially in children with certain health issues, and that the vaccine is much safer than contracting measles, mumps, or rubella.

Experts warn that separating the MMR vaccine into three shots may increase the risk of children contracting diseases or missing appointments between doses. The order does not mandate these changes; instead, they serve as guidance for parents. Dr. Andrew Racine, president of the AAP, called the order "dangerous" and not based on "gold-standard science."

Republican Senator Bill Cassidy also criticized the executive order, stating that vaccines are overwhelmingly safe and effective. The AAP emphasizes that there is no medical reason to delay or skip recommended immunizations, as children's immune systems are best protected when vaccines are given at the appropriate times.