CHOP’s Response to Recommended Changes to the Childhood Vaccine Schedule

What families may be hearing

You may be hearing new or conflicting messages about the childhood vaccination schedule. These recommendations are not based on any new scientific evidence. What we know about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines is based on decades of research and experience in millions of children. CHOP’s recommendations have not changed. 

Why Is CHOP continuing to recommend the AAP vaccine schedule?

CHOP follows the AAP schedule because it is based on careful review of the best available science.

Vaccines recommended by the AAP have been studied extensively for safety and effectiveness. Like all medicines, vaccines can have side effects, but serious side effects are rare. For children who should receive them, the benefits of vaccination are much greater than the known risks.

• Vaccines protect children from serious diseases and can prevent hospital stays.
• Vaccines help protect babies and people whose immune systems are weaker.
• Giving vaccines on time helps protect children before they are exposed to disease.

CHOP will keep reviewing new, high-quality evidence. If the science changes, we will review our guidance. At this time, our vaccine recommendations have not changed.

Frequently asked questions

1. Is CHOP changing its childhood vaccine recommendations?

No. CHOP continues to follow the 2026 AAP vaccine schedules for children and teens. Our recommendations have not changed.

2. Can my child still get all of the vaccines CHOP recommends?

Yes. CHOP continues to offer vaccines based on the AAP schedule. Your care team can tell you which vaccines are recommended for your child’s age and health needs. If you have questions, your care team will review the schedule with you. 

3. Will insurance still cover vaccines? Is the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program still available?

At this time, insurance coverage for childhood vaccines has not changed, and the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program remains in place for eligible children. Coverage can vary by insurance plan. If you have a question about your child’s coverage, your care team can help you find the right information. 

4. Have new studies shown that childhood vaccines are unsafe?

No new scientific evidence has emerged which is why AAP and CHOP recommendations have not changed. Vaccines are carefully studied before they are used and continue to be monitored for safety.

5. Is it safer to give my child only one vaccine at a time?

No. Research shows that giving more than one recommended vaccine at the same visit is safe. In fact, vaccines that are given together have been studied together to make sure each still works as expected when given together. The AAP schedule is timed to protect children when they need protection most. Spacing vaccines out can leave your child unprotected longer and may mean more visits, shots, and stress for your child.

6. Can my child get separate measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines instead of the MMR vaccine?

No. Separate measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines are not available in the U.S. CHOP recommends the combined MMR vaccine, which has been given in this combination since the early 1970s. It is known to be both safe and effective.

7. Can my child get vaccines without aluminum?

Some vaccines do not contain aluminum. Some vaccines use a small amount of aluminum to help the immune system make a stronger response. For vaccines that use aluminum, there are not separate aluminum-free versions of the same vaccine. Aluminum has been used safely in vaccines for almost 100 years, and the amounts we are exposed to from vaccines are minimal compared with the daily exposures we have from food.  

8. Do vaccines cause autism?

No. Large studies done by different teams of scientists involving many children in several countries have found no link between vaccines and autism.

9. Why am I hearing vaccine messages that are different from what CHOP and the AAP say?

We understand that mixed messages can be stressful and confusing. CHOP bases our recommendations on high-quality scientific evidence and guidance from pediatric experts at the AAP. We will update our care when strong new evidence supports a change.

10. With measles cases increasing, what is the best way to protect my child?

The MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles. Two recommended doses protect 97-99 of every 100 children against measles. CHOP recommends children receive MMR on time unless there is a medical reason they cannot.

11. Will recent public policy announcements change the vaccine care my child receives at CHOP?

CHOP’s current vaccine recommendations have not changed. We continue to follow the AAP schedule and provide care based on the best available science, your child’s health needs, and our commitment to patient safety. 

We're here with you

We know vaccine decisions can bring up strong feelings and important questions. You deserve clear, respectful information. Please ask us what is on your mind. We are here to:

• Listen with empathy and respect
• Answer your questions clearly and without judgment
• Share trusted information about vaccine safety and effectiveness
• Partner with you to protect your child’s health

Your trust matters to us. At CHOP, your child’s safety, health, and well-being come first. We will continue to use the best available science and work with you during every step of your child’s care.