HHS seeks input on revamping U.S. childhood vaccine categorization

The Health and Human Services department announced a request for public comment on revising how vaccines are classified, including options like “recommended, but not during infancy” and “recommended with qualification.” This effort builds on a recent executive order that aimed to separate the combined measles, mumps and rubella shot, a proposal widely denounced by medical professionals as lacking scientific basis. Experts such as David Mandell argue that redefining categories could allow fewer vaccines to be treated as routine, potentially lowering uptake without formally removing any from the schedule.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, which has previously challenged the administration’s vaccine reduction plan, said it is discussing the request internally and will file a response through the government portal. Comments are accepted until September 20, and HHS referenced its public announcement but did not provide additional details when asked for comment.