Vaccine Changes: What's the Deal with U. S. Immunization Plans?
USAFri Jan 09 2026
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Merck, a big name in vaccines, recently spoke up about changes to the U. S. vaccine schedule for kids. They believe any changes should be based on solid science and expert advice. The CDC and other health groups recently moved some vaccines, like those for rotavirus and flu, to a category where parents need to talk to doctors before deciding.
Health experts are worried. They think this could lead to fewer kids getting vaccinated, which might cause more preventable illnesses and hospital visits. Merck agrees that clear, science-backed recommendations are crucial for keeping kids safe.
Merck also mentioned that comparing U. S. vaccine schedules to other countries isn't straightforward. Different countries have different disease risks and healthcare systems. They emphasized the importance of sticking to a science-led approach.
The changes might also affect Merck's revenue. Analysts estimate that the company could lose up to $2 billion a year because of these updates. The new schedule also suggests giving kids just one dose of the HPV vaccine instead of the usual two.
Merck is standing by its commitment to science and safety. They plan to work with health partners to make sure kids stay protected. The debate continues, but one thing is clear: keeping kids healthy is the top priority.