WASHINGTON – In a groundbreaking shift, the United States government announced on Monday a reduction in the number of vaccines it advises for children. While parents can still opt for additional immunizations like flu shots, the new guidelines lack specific recommendations.

Authorities assured that this revision of the federal vaccine schedule won’t strip families of vaccine access or insurance coverage. However, healthcare professionals have criticized the decision, warning it might curtail the uptake of crucial vaccinations and potentially escalate the spread of diseases.

This policy shift was initiated without consulting the advisory committee that usually collaborates on vaccine guidance. It follows a directive from President Donald Trump in December, instructing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to examine how other nations approach vaccine recommendations and to possibly adjust U.S. guidelines accordingly.

HHS’s analysis of 20 peer countries revealed that the U.S. stands out for recommending a higher number of vaccines and doses for children. Agency representatives described the update as a move to bolster public confidence by focusing on the essential vaccinations every child should receive.