CDC moves to revise childhood immunization schedule after Trump directive; House Democrats demand answers

The CDC is moving forward with changes to the U.S. childhood immunization schedule after a presidential memorandum directed a review of how peer nations structure routine vaccination recommendations.

A CDC release said Acting CDC Director Jim O’Neill signed a decision memorandum on January 5, 2026, accepting recommendations from a scientific assessment and directing implementation while stating that vaccines remain available and covered without cost-sharing.

In Congress, Democrats on the House Energy and Commerce Committee sent a letter raising alarm about what they described as a lack of meaningful process and inadequate scientific justification, pressing the CDC on expert input and transparency.

• CDC says schedule changes follow an assessment comparing the U.S. with peer nations
• Agency says coverage continues without cost-sharing across categories of recommendations
• House Democrats seek documentation and clarity on scientific and expert review